There are lots of attractions for older children, such as soft play, theme parks and farms, whilst there's seemingly little for babies, but look around and you'll find there are plenty of activities for babies too! Babies will go almost anywhere and do almost anything, they are, after all, largely pram-bound and to them everything is excitingly new. Many activities designed for babies are community or group based, such as meeting with other mum's at toddler groups, attending baby massage groups and baby swimming lessons. If you find there's not a lot going on in your area, why not be a proactive mum and set up your own local baby groups? Even if there seems to be a dearth of baby activities, there's probably no shortage of babies. Make sure that you don't find yourself imprisoned in your own home for the first few months after having a baby, it will really help you to get out and meet and talk with other mums. Your baby will also enjoy the company of other babies, even though they don't interact or play together until they are much older.

A newborn baby needs both stimulation, but also quiet time to ponder and analyse the world around them. At first babies are unable to see more than a few inches in front of them, so come up close and sing lullabies and show bright board books, high contrast patterns or flash cards from just a foot away. Your newborn will also enjoy the movement and rhythm of being carried places. You don't need to worry too much about toys at this stage as for a baby, everything is a 'toy' that can be explored and played with! Join ToucanLearn as soon as you have your baby and you'll find loads of activities aimed specifically at the first few weeks of your babies life!