Raise a Friendly Baby

Expand His Social Circle -- Slowly

Your baby isn't ready for playdates, but he'll benefit from being around other kids. Alexandra Smith Ozerkis, of Princeton, New Jersey, joined a new moms' group soon after her son, Davis, was born. "The kids don't really play together, but they do react to and learn from one another," she says. One example: At 10 months, Davis was struggling to crawl. "Then he saw two of his friends doing it, and that's all he needed to get going."

It's great to expose your baby to adults too, but don't overwhelm him -- especially in the early weeks. Invite one or two close friends or family members over, and then gradually broaden his social circle. Make sure you, your spouse, or a familiar caregiver stays in sight at all times so your child feels safe.