It's hard to name anything better than seeing a smile on your baby's face, or hearing your baby laugh. It's so contagious that hearing your baby laugh will cheer up anyone nearby, whether that's your spouse or a store clerk.
Babies typically start laughing out loud around 4- months old. You'll always the first time your baby laughed uncontrollably at something, even if you weren't doing anything differently!
But after seeing your little one coo and giggle, you'll want to keep him/her laughing as much as you can! In fact, laughing is great for your baby's development. Basically, there are only positives to spending time with your bundle of joy and injecting him/her with plenty of cuddle and laughter.
Here are 15 of the best ways to make your baby laugh with big, gummy smiles and hearty chuckles.
15 ways to make your baby laugh every time!
1. Blow raspberries
Nothing gets your baby laughing like a good old raspberry! Gently blow on your little one's belly for a guaranteed giggle.
Try blowing raspberries on his/her hands and feet for different reactions.
2. Play "Peekaboo"
The classic peekaboo requires only your hands, your ability to make funny noises, and patience to do it again and again.
Your baby doesn't get bored of you hiding behind your hands temporarily. But you can also try hiding his/her favourite toys behind a blanket cover.
Bright-coloured objects can really help stimulate your little one in this game of surprise and suspense.
Feel free to have fun with this as your baby loves this activity!
3. Eskimo kisses
Your baby loves spending time with you as much as you love hearing his/her laughter! Hold your little one close to you and rub your nose against his/her's. Then enjoy the uncontrollable giggles!
4. Tickling
This strategy is one that works on just about everyone; not just babies! If you gently tickle your baby's belly, armpit, feet, etc. you're sure to bring out a god fit of laughter! Some babies are more ticklish than others, but it's worth experimenting with if you want to see your baby's beautiful smile, or hear their charming laugh!
5. Older children/siblings
Babies have free tiny comedians in their older siblings. Your little one naturally loves laughing at older kids or siblings since they tend to be really goofy!
Encourage your siblings to spend time together to watch. When your cutie pie sees the funny faces other people make, he/she can't help but break out into laughter.
6. Animals
Pets can be equally as goofy as older siblings! Put your baby in a place where he/she can watch you play with your pet. The dynamics movements like rolling around, jumping, or running in zigzags will leave your baby in stitches.
7. Playful biting
When you pretend to bite your baby, he/she really enjoys the sensation and usually bursts into giggles. You can nibble at your little one's feet, or pretend to chew on the arms like it's sweetcorn.
8. Horse riding
Put your baby on your knees and bounce up and down. You can make neigh-ing sounds like a horse, or just say "giddy up".
It might be a bit tiring, but it'll be a lot of fun for everyone involved.
9. Play a game of chase
If your baby knows how to crawl, then playing chase like a cat and mouse. If your baby is already crawling away or is facing you, you can initiate the game by saying "Mummy monster is coming!"
In dramatic fashion, start chasing your little one. By this point, he/she will have already set off for the hills while laughing hysterically.
10. Silly faces
Being silly is the name of the game. Make goofy faces to see your baby laugh with reckless abandon! Like peekaboo, it's simple and can be done anywhere.
Furthermore, your baby will be familiar with your face and is more likely to giggle when you play with him/her.
11. Songs with actions
Babies love hearing songs. Break out into a medley of nursery rhymes that have actions with the songs to keep your little one engaged and laughing the whole time.
Popular choices include Pat-A-Cake, Ipsy Dipsy Spider, or The Little Piggy.
12. Bouncing on the bed
Place your baby lying on his/her back on the bed. Gently shake the bed so that the mattress bounces up and down slightly.
Your little one will love the sensation of a baby-sized rollercoaster and will start laughing the longer you play.
13. Goofy noises
Your baby is entertained by all sorts out noises. You can make goofy noises to see how your little one responds. Alternatively, experiment making sounds with objects, like rustling paper or using liquids to make noises.
The unfamiliarity can make your baby giggle as he/she tries to understand what it is.
14. Pretend to trip or hurt yourself
The key is to pretend! For some reason, babies love it when they see you doing funny things.
Pretending to accidentally walk into a wall, stub your toe or, trip on the carpet can make your baby laugh.
15. Laughing with your baby
There's no reason everyone can't enjoy themselves! Your baby generally copies what you do. When you break into full laughter, your baby will also laugh.
However, if your baby laughs, try to follow and smile or laugh with him/her.
There isn't anything more fun or uplifting than seeing and hearing your baby laugh.
Brighten up your day by making your little one giggle away.
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