Kick start

Getting ready to crawl, stand, and walk is a big challenge – all sorts of new muscles need to develop in those little legs. This kicking game develops gross motor coordination while your young go-getter's still "on the bench."

Appropriate for: 8 to 13 months
Skills developed: Gross motor
What you'll need: A light, midsize plastic ball

Help your baby kick a ball by holding him or her in front of you (and facing away from you). Put one arm around his or her chest and use the other hand to support your baby's bottom. Place a ball directly in front of your baby and help his or her feet kick the ball forward. Then move forward so your baby can propel the ball across the floor, like a mini soccer star. Cheer every time your baby's foot makes contact with the ball.

This makes a great game when you get your baby together with a playmate. You and another parent can position the babies to face each other and kick the ball back and forth.