How it Plays

This game requires that your baby have some neck control, so he should be at least 4 months old before you try it. Lie on your back on the floor with your knees raised to your chest. Your shins should be perpendicular to the floor. Lay your baby, stomach down, on top of your shins. Now raise your legs slightly so your baby rises into the air and say, "Airplane up, up, and away!" (Be sure to keep knees together so your baby doesn't drop between them.)

If your baby's more than 8 months old, you can keep him in position simply by holding his hands; if he's younger you'll want to have one hand on either side of his torso. Tilt your knees slightly, first to one side and then to the other, calling out "zoom!" and "whee!" (Yes, this requires some coordination, but it's very good for the stomach muscles.) When you finally lower your legs back to your chest in exhaustion, don't forget to say, "Airplane coming in for a landing."

What You'll Need

Learning and Growing

Not only is this game good exercise for you, but it helps your baby develop neck control and upper-body strength.