High Contrast Art Cards for Newborns

White cardstock (heavier paper holds up better)

Black marker or non-toxic black paint

Paintbrush if using paint

Scissors

Cut white cardstock into rectangles about 5 by 7 inches. You will want to make at least four to six cards.

Use a thick black marker or black paint to draw simple bold patterns — stripes, circles, zigzags, spirals, and bullseyes. Keep patterns large and high contrast.

Let the cards dry completely before using them near your baby.

Hold a card about 8 to 12 inches from your baby's face during a calm awake period. This is the distance newborns see best.

Slowly move the card side to side and watch your baby's eyes track the pattern.

Talk about what you drew — "See these stripes? They go up and down" — in a gentle, singsong voice.

Prop a few cards near the changing table or beside the bassinet for independent gazing throughout the day.

This is actually an art project for you that benefits your baby. Enjoy the creative process while your little one naps, then use the cards during awake time.

Laminate the cards or cover them with clear packing tape to make them drool-proof and longer lasting.

Around 3 to 4 months, start adding a single bold color like red to the cards as color vision develops.

Tape cards to the wall beside the changing table at baby's eye level for easy visual stimulation during diaper changes.