Touch is one of the first senses to develop in the fetus, from the earliest weeks of pregnancy. At birth, it plays a central role in the way babies discover their surroundings.
A Sense That Is Already Active at Birth
Unlike vision, which is still blurry during the first few weeks, touch is fully functional from birth. Newborns perceive warmth, texture, pressure, and pain with keen sensitivity, particularly in their hands, mouths, and faces.
Skin-to-skin contact, recommended from the first few minutes of life, directly relies on this early tactile sensitivity.
The Role of the Hands in Exploration
At around 3 to 4 months, babies begin intentionally bringing objects to their mouths, primarily as a form of tactile exploration. This oral phase complements manual exploration and helps build sensory reference points.
Stimulating Touch Every Day
Offering a variety of surfaces and materials helps babies refine their tactile discrimination. A reversible play mat with two sides featuring distinct textures makes it possible to vary sensations without multiplying the number of objects.
Varying Stimulation Without Overdoing It
There is no need to multiply sources of stimulation. A few carefully chosen materials, offered regularly, are enough to support this sensory exploration without overwhelming the child.
Touch and Emotional Security
Touch is also a way to build connection: holding, massaging, or simply placing a hand on the baby helps foster emotional security, a topic explored in our article on cognitive development.
To discover more ideas for sensory development, see our article on stimulation through water or our guide to using a play mat by age. If you have any questions, contact us.
