Hey there, tired-but-totally-rocking-it parent! 👋 If you’ve got a 7-month-old baby, then you already know life feels like a mix of adorable giggles, drool puddles, and “Wait… did I just reheat my coffee for the fourth time?” moments. Yep, been there.
At this stage, your little one is basically a sponge with chubby cheeks — curious, full of energy, and ready to explore. But let’s be real: sometimes you run out of ideas real fast. You’ve sung “Wheels on the Bus” so many times you’re starting to dream about it, right? 😅
That’s why I’m spilling the tea on 15 hidden 7 month old baby activities that most parents don’t even think about. These are fun, easy, and help with your baby’s development, coordination, and curiosity — all while giving you a break from the usual toy rotation.
So grab that lukewarm coffee (it’s fine, I won’t judge 😉), and let’s get into it.
1. The “Peek-a-Boo with a Twist” Game
Okay, you’ve probably played peek-a-boo before, but have you ever tried it with textures?
Take a soft scarf, a crinkly tissue, or even a lightweight baby blanket, and switch it up each time. Your baby’s brain goes, “Wait—this feels different!” and starts connecting sensory patterns.
Why it works:
– Builds object permanence (that’s fancy talk for “Mom disappears but still exists!”).
– Encourages sensory development.
– Makes your baby giggle like it’s the funniest thing in the world — every. single. time.
Pro tip: Try using your baby’s favorite toy to “play peek-a-boo” too. It’s ridiculously cute watching them “search” for it.
2. The Kitchen Concert
Ever noticed how your baby’s eyes light up when you open kitchen drawers? Yeah, that’s not an accident. Babies LOVE the kitchen because it’s full of weird sounds. Pull out a wooden spoon, a plastic bowl, and maybe a measuring cup. Sit on the floor with your little drummer and go wild.
Why it’s awesome:
– Builds rhythm and cause-and-effect understanding.
– Improves motor coordination (that’s code for “hitting stuff with enthusiasm”).
– Keeps your baby busy long enough for you to maybe… just maybe… finish that coffee.
Heads up: Maybe skip the metal pots unless you enjoy sudden eardrum concerts. 😬
3. The Mirror Game
Place a baby-safe mirror on the floor and watch your little one discover their “new best friend.”
At 7 months, babies are fascinated by reflections. They might smile, reach, or even try to kiss themselves. Adorable and developmental? Yes, please.
Why it rocks:
– Encourages self-recognition and emotional awareness.
– Improves focus and curiosity.
– Great for tummy time if you prop it slightly.
Ever wondered what your baby thinks when they see themselves? Probably something like, “Hey, that baby’s cute!” 😄
4. Treasure Basket Time
Here’s a game-changer: the treasure basket. Grab a basket and fill it with safe, everyday items (wooden spoon, silicone spatula, ribbon, soft brush). Let your baby explore each one. The trick? Keep rotating the items so it always feels new.
Why it’s gold:
– Builds fine motor skills.
– Sparks curiosity and sensory learning.
– Gives you five minutes of peace while your baby is deeply “investigating.”
IMO, this one’s a lifesaver on those days when toys just don’t cut it.
5. Dance Party (Yes, Really!)
Turn on your favorite playlist — doesn’t have to be “Baby Shark” (unless you secretly love it 😏) — and dance with your baby in your arms. They’ll love the rhythm, the movement, and your silly dance faces.
Why it works:
– Strengthens balance and coordination.
– Builds emotional connection.
– Burns calories (yours, not theirs — but hey, it counts!).
Bonus: Babies love repetition, so dance to the same song a few days in a row. They’ll start recognizing it and maybe even wiggle along. 💃
6. DIY Sensory Bags
Fill a Ziploc bag with water, glitter, and a few small toys or colorful beads (tape it shut, obviously).
Let your baby squish and press it while on their tummy. Instant sensory wonderland.
Why it’s amazing:
– Promotes tactile exploration.
– Strengthens hand and arm muscles.
– Keeps them engaged longer than most store-bought toys.
And FYI, sensory bags are baby crack — they just can’t resist touching them. 😂
7. Bubble Chase
Blow bubbles and watch your baby’s face light up like it’s Christmas morning. You can do this indoors (bathroom floors are great) or outside. Your baby will reach, giggle, and maybe even try to eat one (totally normal).
Why it’s brilliant:
– Improves hand-eye coordination.
– Encourages visual tracking.
– Pure entertainment — for both of you.
Trust me, this one never gets old. Even my husband joins in sometimes… though he’ll deny it.
8. Tummy Time Adventure Zone
Tummy time isn’t exactly every baby’s favorite thing. But it can be fun if you spice it up. Set up a mini obstacle course — a rolled towel, a mirror, a soft toy just out of reach. Suddenly, tummy time feels like a baby mission.
Why it’s important:
– Builds core strength and neck muscles.
– Prepares your baby for crawling.
– Makes tummy time less of a battle and more of an adventure.
Because honestly, nobody wins when tummy time turns into a meltdown.
9. The “What’s That Sound?” Game
Use a few objects — a rattle, keys, a squeaky toy, even your voice — and play “guess the sound.”
Make the sound, then show the object. Babies love surprises, and this simple activity keeps their little brains buzzing.
Why it’s clever:
– Develops auditory skills.
– Teaches cause and effect.
– Keeps things fun and interactive.
Bonus points if you add silly sound effects. I may or may not have mooed like a cow for 10 minutes straight once. 🙃
10. Water Splash Play
If your baby loves bath time, you’ll both adore this one. Fill a shallow tub or bowl with water, toss in a few floating toys, and let the splashing begin (supervised, of course!).
Why it’s awesome:
– Enhances sensory and motor skills.
– Helps babies understand temperature and texture.
– Perfect for hot days and easy clean-up fun.
Pro tip: Do this outside if you can. Your floor will thank you.
11. Storytime with Voices
Reading to your baby is great — but let’s be honest, sometimes it gets boring when you’re whispering through “Goodnight Moon” for the 47th time. So spice it up! Use funny voices, make animal sounds, or overact the story. Your baby won’t judge your acting skills (promise).
Why it matters:
– Builds language development and attention span.
– Teaches emotional tones through your voice.
– Encourages bonding through storytelling.
And if you end up enjoying it more than your baby, that’s totally fine too.
12. Textured Crawl Path
Your baby’s crawling stage is coming fast (if not already here!). So let’s make it fun. Lay out different textures on the floor — a towel, a rug, a yoga mat, a soft blanket. Let your baby crawl across them barefoot or on their tummy.
Why it’s brilliant:
– Encourages exploration and curiosity.
– Strengthens leg and arm muscles.
– Boosts sensory learning through touch.
It’s basically a mini sensory gym without the membership fee. 😉
13. The Box Surprise
Grab an empty cardboard box (diaper boxes work perfectly), and put a few random objects inside. Let your baby reach in and explore. The mystery keeps them fascinated longer than any flashing toy ever could.
Why it’s genius:
– Builds problem-solving and curiosity.
– Improves fine motor skills.
– Cheap, easy, and endlessly fun.
Seriously, who needs fancy toys when you’ve got cardboard boxes? Babies are minimalists at heart.
14. The Copycat Game
Babies love imitation. Try simple gestures — clapping, waving, sticking out your tongue (because why not?). Encourage them to copy you, and when they do, cheer like they just won the Olympics. 🎉
Why it’s so effective:
– Boosts social and emotional learning.
– Teaches body awareness.
– Helps with language development through facial expressions.
It’s funny how one silly face from you can turn into their favorite game ever.
15. The Sensory Bottle
Take a clear plastic bottle, fill it with water, glitter, beads, or rice. Seal it tight (super tight), and shake it up. Your baby will stare at it like it’s pure magic. You can even add food coloring for extra flair.
Why it’s mesmerizing:
– Improves visual tracking.
– Calms fussy babies (like a baby lava lamp).
– Encourages independent play for a few precious minutes.
Just one tip — make sure that lid is glued or taped shut, unless you want glitter water on your couch. Don’t ask how I know. 😬
Why These Activities Actually Matter
You might be wondering, “Do all these silly games actually do anything?” Oh, absolutely.
Each of these 7-month-old baby activities helps build key developmental skills:
– Motor development: reaching, grasping, crawling, balancing.
– Cognitive growth: understanding cause and effect, problem-solving.
– Language learning: responding to your voice, mimicking sounds.
– Emotional bonding: trust, laughter, and love during playtime.
It’s not just “play.” It’s how babies learn to be tiny, confident humans. ❤️
Quick Tips to Make Playtime Even Better
Because sometimes, it’s not just about what you do — but how you do it.
- ✅ Follow your baby’s cues. If they lose interest, switch it up.
- ✅ Repeat favorite activities. Repetition builds memory.
- ✅ Get silly. Babies love when you make goofy faces or sounds.
- ✅ Mix up textures and sounds. Keeps their senses awake.
- ✅ Keep sessions short. Five to ten minutes is perfect at this age.
And FYI, perfection is overrated. Some days, you’ll nail sensory play. Other days, “activity time” will be just blowing raspberries on their tummy — and that’s totally okay.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Blink — They Grow Too Fast
Here’s the thing — this 7-month-old phase is pure magic. It’s exhausting, yes, but also packed with “firsts” you’ll never forget. These 15 hidden baby activities aren’t just about development; they’re about connection. They help you slow down, laugh, and actually enjoy the messy, giggly chaos that is babyhood.
So, go ahead. Try a few today. Let your baby bang on pots, splash water, or laugh at bubbles. You’ll blink, and they’ll be crawling across the room — so soak it all in while you can. And hey, if all else fails, there’s always dancing in the kitchen with a spoon mic and a baby backup singer. 😉
