Health Tip: Help Baby's Development

(HealthDay News) - Parents are instrumental in helping babies learn, grow and develop, both physically and emotionally.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says you can encourage your baby's development by:

• Reading picture books to her, and letting her play with them on her own.

• Taking her to different places and exposing her to different sights, such as at the zoo, the mall, or children's play center.

• If she's 1 year or a bit older, play ball with your baby. Toss a soft-rubber ball lightly to her and let her try to catch it or roll it back to you.

• Encourage your child to play with large toys that can be pushed around. This may help promote early walking and build leg muscles.