Do mirrors captivate your baby? If your child is fascinated by the high shine and images that appear in the mirror, take a look at what you need to know about how you can use mirrors to boost your infant's development.

Who is that baby in the mirror? When your child sees their own reflection, they won't immediately know who the other infant is. The older your child gets, the better able they are to recognize themselves. Your infant may already explore their hands or toes through sight, touch, and even taste (when your baby puts their fingers or toes in their mouth).

Even though your baby may not yet know who their reflection is or have an idea of what self-awareness means, you can still use mirrors to assist in this area of development. Along with self-recognition/self-awareness, mirror play can help your baby to develop in other areas. These include visual development and motor coordination.

At birth, your baby can see 10 inches away at most. By four- to five-months of age your child can see far enough to look at themselves in a mirror. Beyond their visual development, a five-month-old has the motor development to reach out and bat at their reflection.

At one year your almost-toddler may touch the reflection in the mirror, watch fast-moving objects, and demonstrate increased depth perception. With your child's new abilities to see and coordinate movements, how can you use mirrors to your (or rather, their) advantage? Read on for more information on your baby's development and the use of reflective surfaces.

How can you use mirrors at home to help your baby develop new skills? There are several different options. If you're not sure where to start, try these use and installation ideas:

• Mirror toys. These toys typically don't use true mirrors (glass). Instead, they have a light, soft mirror-like reflective surface. Some toys also use mirrored surfaces are part of a stuffed, plush, or similar soft toy.
• Floor to ceiling mirrors. A mirrored wall may seem like a décor choice. But it can also double as a playroom pick. Your infant can crawl up to the reflective surface for an easy view. As your child's motor skills develop, they can crawl, stand, and walk up to the mirror.
• Wall mirrors. Can your child use wall mirrors for play-time? While your infant can't reach the mirror in the middle of the wall or the one mounted over the bathroom vanity, you can lift them high enough to see themselves in these reflective surfaces.

When it comes to specific types of play, your child can explore their reflection (under your supervision) or you can point into the mirror's reflection and let your child follow with their gaze.

Even though mirrors can contribute to your child's development, this type of play requires constant supervision and safety measures. How can you make mirror play safer for your child? When you use mirrors with your infant:

• Make sure all mirrors are completely secure. Never use a mirror propped against a wall or hung with a flimsy hook. This poses a serious safety risk. Only allow your baby to play near mirrors that a professional anchors and secures for you.
• Avoid sharp edges. Stay away from mirrors with sharp or jagged edges. A professional glass contractor can help you choose a safer (not as sharp) shape.
• Stay a safe distance away. Most babies will reach out for the mirror. This normal behavior can quickly turn dangerous. Keep your baby at a safe distance (where they can't touch the surface).

Always supervise your child near mirrors. Watch your baby closely, stay within arm's reach, or hold your baby. If you have concerns about the mirror's stability, have a professional assess the situation immediately.

Do you need a custom mirror for your child's playroom? Contact us at Monterey Glass Specialistsfor more information.