Playing with your baby and talking to him is one of the most important things you can do to help his development. Having fun together is the best way to build a loving bond. When he's tiny, nursery rhymes with actions provide both stimulation and entertainment.

This little piggy went to market Squeeze and wriggle your baby's big toe. This little piggy stayed at home Squeeze and wriggle his second toe. This little piggy had roast beef Squeeze and wriggle his middle toe. This little piggy had none Squeeze and wriggle his fourth toe. And this little piggy went 'wee, wee, wee' all the way home. Tickle your baby all over.

Show him his face in the mirror.

Look out of the window and tell him what you can see.

Take him round the room, pointing at things and naming them for him.

Round and round the garden like a teddy bear, Hold your baby's hand open and trace a circle on him palm with you finger. One step, Step your finger up towards his elbow. Two steps, Step your finger up towards the top of his arm. Tickle him under there. Tickle him under the arm.

Let your baby make faces at you, and pause sometimes when you're talking to him. He may make some noises back at you and you can show your delight and pleasure to encourage him.

Your baby will be fascinated by your voice and face, and adore the attention you're giving him.

All these early games and conversations are known to be important to your baby's development and to his skills of talking and learning and they are fun too.

Pat a cake, pat a cake, baker's man. Bake me a cake as fast as you can Hold your baby's hands open and pat them together. Pat it and prick it Touch is open palm with your finger, pat it with your hand. And mark it with B Trace a B on his palm. And put it in the oven for baby and me. Pat his hands together again.