Infants know they are cared for when they are held, caressed, massaged, and kissed. In most cases, they love attention. Cradle your baby in your lap, and gently stroke her in different rhythmical patterns. This simple bit of love and attention can reap great benefits: Studies have shown that babies who are seldom touched don’t grow or develop normally. If you and your partner both hold and touch your infant a lot, she will soon come to know the difference between Mommy’s and Daddy’s ways of touching.

Premature babies and those with medical difficulties may especially respond to infant massage. Many books and videos cover the subject; discuss with your child’s doctor which one you think might work for you and your baby. Be careful, however; babies are not as strong as adults are and can’t take anything like the pressure or manipulation of a regular adult massage.

Babies usually love sounds, so talk, babble, sing, and coo away in the first months. Most babies also like everyday sounds like pots and pans rattling and the sounds of other children playing and laughing. Take advantage of your baby’s own “talking”; repeat whatever sounds she makes and wait for her to make more. These “conversations” teach lessons about tone, pacing, and taking turns when talking to someone else. Touch and name all the parts of your baby’s body as she watches. Make a game out of it by moving your hands from her foot to her hands and back again.

Your baby probably will also love listening to music. Try out a variety of types and see what she seems to like best. Baby rattles and musical mobiles are other good ways to stimulate your infant’s hearing. If your baby is being fussy, try singing, reciting poetry and nursery rhymes, or reading to her as you rock gently in a rocking chair. Or put on some calming music. Hold your baby’s face close to your own and gently sway to the tune. It might calm you both. Take your baby for a walk in a stroller, baby carrier, or sling, and sing to her when she’s being fussy.

Some babies, especially premature ones, may be unusually sensitive to touch, light, or sound. Such a baby may startle and cry easily, sleep less than you might expect, or turn her face away when you speak or sing to her. Try to keep noise and light levels moderate, and move slowly and calmly when you interact with her. Watch her reactions closely, and back off if she seems stressed. Many babies like to be carried and held all the time. The closer you can come to meeting this need (perhaps by carrying your baby on your chest in a cloth carrier or sling), the easier it may be for you both.