Nurseries that help them learn
Babies are learning constantly, from the minute they open their eyes in the morning until they drift off to sleep at night. The nursery is their first classroom, so fill it with things that stimulate, inspire, teach and delight.
VIBRANT VISUALS
Long before their hands get into the act, babies are exploring the world visually. Studies have shown that bold colors and high-contrast color pairings are easiest for infants’ eyes to see. Bright bedding, rugs, wall hangings and stencils that show simple shapes, letters or numbers ensure that there’s always something exciting to see and learn. Framed photos of family and friends fill the nursery with happy faces, and a mirror on the wall helps babies learn to recognize themselves.
FINGERS & TOES
As they learn to grasp and hold, babies thrive on things they can touch, lift, bat and toss. The nursery provides them with a range of textures to explore, from smooth cotton sheeting to a soft, nubby rug. Baskets, bins and other containers become teaching tools, as babies learn to move objects in and out of them.
MOBILITY
Placing a soft rug or quilt on the floor gives your baby a place to practice lifting her head and building strength and coordination in her arm and leg muscles in preparation for crawling. Later, sturdy low benches and ottomans help her pull herself up to take those first exciting steps.
THE READING CORNER
It’s never too soon to start reading to your baby. Setting up a quiet corner with bookshelves and a rocker or glider sets the stage for cozy storytelling — time well spent to develop language skills. As your baby begins to crawl and then walk, leaving cloth and board books on low shelves lets her easily find her favorites.