6–12 months: food, care and play guides

THE USEFUL STARTING POINT

Prepare one safe place for floor play and one manageable food experience rather than filling the day with new activities.

Make room for exploring

Prepare one safe place for floor play and one manageable food experience rather than filling the day with new activities.

A few useful moments in your day

Before play

Clear the floor and choose one large, age-rated object. Stay nearby as movement changes.

At a meal

Use the feeding guide for readiness and preparation. Eating is supervised and seated, separate from active play.

When interest fades

Return to a familiar song or book. Repetition is welcome.

First tastes. Endless discoveries.

Use this stage as a starting point, not a checklist. Pick the subject that matters to your family today. Children develop differently; adapt play to ability and discuss health or feeding concerns with your care team.

First foods
Exploring
Connection

Food & nutritionSoft textures and nourishing foods, one step at a time.Daily careEvery new movement brings a new care routine.Natural toysSimple materials invite sensory exploration.Toys & playStacking cups, soft balls, and peekaboo books.Health & remediesCommon concerns, gentle comfort, and knowing when to get help.Learning & IQRepetition helps new discoveries feel familiar.Emotions & EQReassurance through new faces and little separations.Sleep & restA calm wind-down while keeping the cot clear.

A question about this stage

Do I need a new toy for every skill?

No. Repeat familiar play in different ways. Use manufacturer age labels and your child’s current abilities to decide what belongs in reach.

Keep exploring

0–6 months: food, care and play guides 1–2 years: food, care and play guides 2–3 years: food, care and play guides