It’s easy to get into a rut with your baby, playing with them in the same spot with the same toys in the same ways. That makes sense: when you find a way to keep your baby content and happy, you tend to want to stick with it. The problem with this sameness is that it goes against neuroscientific research. 

Particularly during the first 7 months of life, your baby has an adaptive drive that compels them to seek new information about how the world works. Studies have shown that when babies are presented with a particular object for a long time, they lose interest and look away. If they’re shown the same thing alongside a new one, they are clearly more interested in the one they’ve never seen before. 

Your baby’s preference for newness doesn’t mean you have to buy a bunch of new toys. The novelty concept is subtle at this age and has more to do with real-life experiences. 

5 easy ways to meet your baby’s need for newness

1. Tear paper and clink silverware. When sorting mail, take a minute to slowly tear open an envelope in your baby’s view. Make a snack and clink two pieces of silverware together in front of your baby’s face, or lightly tap a glass. 
2. Light a candle or shine a flashlight. You can put a blanket down in any room of your home and give them a new view. You can also change the lighting. Turn out the lights, light a candle and let them watch it flicker (supervised and out of reach of your baby). Shine a flashlight on different parts of a darkened room. 
3. Face them forward. Take your baby on a walk and give them a clear view, facing forward from the stroller or carrier. You could also put a blanket on the ground. Clouds or trees moving overhead, the contrast of buildings against the sky, and a breeze against their skin all give your baby new sensory information. 
4. Show your baby new foods. Take your baby to the grocery store and introduce them to the foods you put in the cart: ‘This is a pomegranate—it’s red and smooth, but has a prickly little crown on the top.’
5. Put some toys away for a month or 2. Put your baby’s prior toys away for a month or two, then take them out again. Familiar toys can be played in new ways and present new learning as your baby’s skills develop. 

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Building Business and Love: The Balancing Act – Radiant Roots

Join us on Radiant Roots as we delve into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and relationships with our special guest, Nathelie Zetwain-Norman. With a wealth of experience building successful businesses while nurturing meaningful connections, Nathelie shares invaluable insights into the delicate balance between business endeavours and personal relationships.In this episode, we explore Nathelie's journey as an entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and triumphs she has encountered. From navigating the complexities of starting and scaling a business to maintaining harmony in her personal life, Nathelie offers practical wisdom and heartfelt anecdotes that resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals. As we delve into the intricacies of building businesses and nurturing love, Nathelie shares candid reflections on the importance of communication, time management, and self-care in fostering success. Drawing from her own experiences, she offers actionable strategies for finding equilibrium amidst the demands of entrepreneurship and pursuing fulfilling relationships.Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking guidance on juggling passion projects and personal connections or a seasoned professional striving to strike a harmonious balance, this episode promises inspiration, insight, and practical advice from a trailblazer in the entrepreneurial space.Tune in to Radiant Roots as we embark on a journey of discovery with Nathelie Zetwain-Norman, exploring the intersections of business, love, and the art of balancing it all.Let's Connect on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrettyRichMelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithandmamaa/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@faithandmamaaWebsite: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Ffaithandmama.com%2Ffaithandmamalinks%2F&e=AT0OTY3iF7FJAv0rcwXA0engV-DXxN7OdAsFZzeul7MFdWB1NNa4kTUEzijMSElYfyKh4Idq0Jn8L-m37qnt3bHj3zbrFgBsZSx1GNgtZl1dJx6c93DKwAConnect with Nathelie:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nattheauthor/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katwianWebsite: https://www.authornatheliezetrennenorman.com/If you want to join our podcast, connect with us to learn more!

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