Playtime Headache?

I don't like babies, I'm not overly keen on other people's toddlers anymore either (my own have ruined me). I have, however brought up my younger brothers and sisters. I played with all 5 of then, 4 of them when the were babies.

Despite my general lack of imagination, I'm actually REALLY good at playing with babies. This doesn't take much effort (except being able to tolerate the tedium of being home ALL DAY ALONE with a baby who can't talk). I made it through said tedium using Dawson's Creek, diet coke and Doctors.

If you want to play with baby, but don't know how, here are some things to try to mix it up a bit.

Leave your phone upstairs for a bit - it removes the temptation to use it.

Read books - if you're at a complete loss for what to do or say, a picture book has all the words you need. Seriously, never consider whether a book is 'too old' just give it a try.

Playing in front of a mirror - Ewan and noah loved rolling on the floor in front of my mirrored wardrobe doors. Babies love faces, seeing themselves also let's them see action and effect.

Play in the cupboards - I would plonk baby down in front o either the pan cupboard or the plastic cupboard and let them explore, bash, stack, fill and enjoy. I highly recommend this, as it literally costs nothing and makes them so happy!

Wear baby - pop them in a sling and talk to them, as if they were a grown up. Use any language, in my books, the fancier the better.

Sing nursery rhymes, if you don't know any, just look up Hooplakidz or Little Baby Bum on YouTube. Sing along to your heart's content (or you get sick of it).

Caring for a baby is boring, lonely and a huge responsibility. You feel completely responsible for that little person, but be kind to yourself. Hell, I did all of the above and still checked Facebook 20 times an hour.

Lots of smiles, cuddles and quality time and they'll be a toddler who is good company by about 2 ish and by 4 they are fabulous, funny and keep you too busy!!