Have you ever noticed how babies can’t get enough of looking at themselves in the mirror? Well, there are some legitimate reasons for this. For babies, mirror play is extremely enjoyable, allowing for another form of exploration and discovery. Here are some good-to-know things about it.
Cognitive Development
Mirror play can significantly support learning and development. As your baby gazes into the looking glass, they’re honing their visual capabilities and even laying the groundwork for language skills.
Self-Awareness
Beyond cognitive benefits, mirror play fosters self-awareness—a crucial developmental aspect. Over time, babies start to recognize their own reflection, reaching developmental milestones at their own pace. While young infants only generally engage with their reflection, older infants already begin to smile and make super-cute noises at it, and toddlers demonstrate more advanced self-recognition.
Bonding Benefits
Last but not least: Other than being super entertaining for babies, mirror play can actually be great for child-parent bonding, too. As babies giggle and babble at their reflections, it gives way to quality interaction and shared laughter.