About our GrowCards
Welcome to the page where we talk about all things ‘GrowCards’. From what they are, to why we created them and, of course, why they’re important.
Whether you’re a brand-new parent changing nappies like they’re going out of fashion or busy chasing your naked toddler around the house, we know that you’ve already got your work cut out.
So, we created these developmental focused activity cards to help you enjoy some fun and meaningful play time with your little one.
Maybe it’s a rainy day or maybe you’re just thinking about what else you could do to help them develop. Well, we hope you’ll enjoy these activity cards as much as we have making them.
When we were busy creating what we hoped would be the world’s comfiest baby grows (we think we did alright?!), one think that struck us was that when you’re with your little one, it’s so much more than just having a nice piece of clothing or a fun toy – it’s about creating an experience, something in which they they can learn and develop.
And, sometimes (Eddie speaking from experience here), you’re wondering what to do all day with the little one. As a new parent, not only are you learning how to keep them fed and watered, and keep poop from getting everywhere – but you’re also learning how to stimulate your little one developmentally.
So, we created GrowCards. A little handy (age appropriate) activity card included in each and order. Just a little helping hand on ideas oh what you could do, why you might want to and how to spend a little fun (and dare we say educational) time together.
– Eddie & Joe, founder of GrowGrows
Developmentally driven
Our activities are sourced from developmental research and medical experts, such as paediatric nurses, doctors, therapists. We work hard to create activity cards that you’ll enjoy, together with your little one.
Instructions
GrowCards are simply to help with some age-appropriate activities that are developmentally minded, but also fun.
It goes without saying that you should alway supervise your little one whilst taking part in any of the activities.
Remember, every baby and toddler develops differently, so don’t worry if some of the activities seem too easy or advanced, it’s perfectly natural for different children to develop at different speeds to one another.
That said, if you notice your little one seems to be struggling throughout a number of the different milestones set out below, then do speak to your midwife or GP, as they’ll be able to help offer you the right advice or guidance.
Developmental skills
Who knew that kids grew so fast?!
They literally develop in front of your very eyes and sometimes it feels hard to keep up! Your little one will often whizz through developmental milestones in the blink of an eye.
As you collect your GrowCards each month, you’ll find each activity card is linked to at least one of 5 key developmental focus areas:
- Cognitive
- Emotional and social
- Physical and gross motor skills
- Sensory and fine motor skills
- Speech and language
Developmental milestones
As every day passes, you’ll (hopefully) be settling into your new routine. And, (hopefully… again) they’ll slowly start sleeping more during the night and staying awake during the day.
With every day comes a new experience and, soon, they’ll be able to follow your movements, as well as focusing in on your eyes as their vision improves.
Your little one will enjoy receiving gentle messages as well as being held, which can help provide reassurance. Keep an eye on what they’re wearing too, as they’re feeling particularly sensitive to changes in temperature around now too.
You might find that they like music. Sometimes it can help them sleep… although by the same token, sometimes music might just make them want to have a wiggle.
It’s important to always talk to your little one, as it can help reassure her that you’re there. Just explain what’s going on around them and help them identify new objects with their hands.
Key milestones:
4-12 weeks:
Their neck will be getting stronger by the day, so keep an eye out for them trying to lift their head. Slowly but surely, they’re learning to control the muscles in her arms and legs but for now, it might just look like they’re grabbing or kicking at things!
6-8 weeks:
Before long, they’ll be giving you a proper cheesy grin and wanting you to come and play with them.
8-12 weeks:
The