Jack in the Box

This sitting activity is great for developing strength in babies, so they can eventually lay to sit on their own.

Set up

Sit on the ground with baby on their back, facing you. 

How to play
Step 1
  • Support baby’s head by placing your hands behind their head and shoulders
Step 2
  • Raise baby to sit, then lower back to laying position, ensuring you do the movement slowly 
  • Talk to baby the whole time
Step 3
  • Continue the movement until baby gets tired, after five to ten times
Variations
Make it harder
  • Once baby can support their own head, do the movement by holding their hands instead
Activity information
Age: 0-12 months
Duration: 5 minutes
Skill focus
Explore these skills for teaching tips
Physical literacy tips
  • Engage with the baby the entire time, and make sure they are happy