Babies have a naturally short attention span, which means they may be done with an activity after only 5-10 minutes. While it's natural to want to provide stimulation, babies don't need constant entertainment — and trying to do so can lead to overstimulation or play dependencies.
Babies are wired to explore their world in short bursts
They may show interest in a toy, a sound, or a movement, but they might lose interest quickly. This doesn’t necessarily mean they're bored and need you to swoop in with another activity; it just means their capacity to focus needs to develop. The best way to support their ability to focus for longer periods is by not interrupting them.
When they are done with an activity, let them choose what’s next
If you get in the habit of leading their play by making yourself the official “entertainer,” then they may grow dependent on this, which isn’t sustainable for you nor ideal for their development. When babies are free to choose what to explore within a defined, safe play area, they internalize, “I am capable of leading my play!”
If your baby signals they just want you, that’s normal
When your baby is alert and awake, the whole wake window won’t necessarily interact only with toys. Babies also need downtime, inclusion in everyday family rhythms, and time to connect with you! They love to observe ordinary experiences and seemingly mundane tasks.
So, the next time your baby passes on their toys, but you need to get dinner ready, avoid the pressure to “fill their time” and distract them, and instead, simply bring them close to you and invite them to observe.
This mix of gentle interaction and downtime will help them flourish and develop naturally.