my 7- to 9-month-old baby’s development and emotional security?

Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your baby:

• Give your baby safe toys that make noises when shaken or hit.
• Play in front of a mirror, calling your baby by name and pointing to your baby’s reflection in the mirror.
• When talking to your baby, pause and wait for him or her to respond just as when talking with an adult.
• Play pat-a-cake and peek-a-boo.
• Clap and wave your hands.
• Name common objects when shown to your baby.
• Make a variety of sounds with your mouth and tone of voice. Sing songs.
• Repeat and expand the sounds your baby makes, such as “ma-ma” when he or she says “ma.”
• Show picture books and read stories to your baby every day.
• Give your baby toys with objects or knobs to push, poke or turn.
• Give your baby toys that stack or nest and show him or her how they work.
• Build a tower with your baby and show him or her how to knock it down.
• Establish a routine for bath and bedtime.