18 simple ways to make your baby laugh

baby laughing

There’s nothing more incredible than hearing a baby’s first laugh, and the first time you hear that magical sound, you won't be able to get enough of it, so it's good to learn what makes your baby giggle!

It may take a while to happen, with most babies laughing for the very first time at around the 3 to 4 month mark, but figuring out what makes your baby laugh is a big part of getting to know them.

Once they can see the amazing reaction and attention laughing brings to them, you'll probably find your baby will laugh at anything that makes them happy, from their favourite toy to their grandparents faces!

We love this adorable video of Tom Fletcher making little Buzz giggle with a dandelion! It's impossible to watch this without smiling!

Can’t wait? Here are some brilliant triggers to make the magic happen…

How to make your baby laugh

Before trying to make your little one laugh, you'll want to make sure they're fed, not tired and have a clean nappy so that they're in a happy mood.

1. Belly raspberries

Blowing noisy raspberries into your baby’s belly is a fool-proof giggle-trigger.

2. Eskimo kisses

Rubbing your nose gently against your baby’s may win you a chuckle.

3. Peekaboo

A classic that has had babies laughing for years – from as young as a few months old, it could get your little one going, too.

4. Tickle monster

Transform yourself into the tickle monster (complete with a funny deep voice, obvs) and find your baby’s ticklish spot.

5. Funny faces

There’s a reason why you see so many normally levelheaded adults pulling ridiculous faces at babies…

7. Child comedians

Young children are totally unselfconscious and have a brilliant knack of making each other laugh – so if you’re struggling, sign up a sibling, cousin or friend for laughter duty.

8. Chasing games

If you’re baby’s crawling, chase around after her on your hands and knees saying ‘mummy’s coming to get you!’. Just watch out for carpet burn – for you and her!

9. Bed bouncing

Lie your baby on her back on your bed and gently jiggle the bed so she bounces around. She’ll love the sensation and it might get her laughing.

10. Strange voices

Now’s the perfect time to practice your GCSE French or that silly accent – she won’t care if you impressions are awful!

11. (Pretend) Horse riding

Sit your baby on your knee and bounce her up and down while saying ‘giddy up!’.

12. Animals antics

Something as simple as watching a dog playing fetch or a cat playing with a toy can be enough to make your tot laugh out loud.

13. Laugh yourself

Laughter really is contagious, so chances are that if you start laughing your baby will join in.

14. Mock formality

Try solemnly (and gently) shaking your baby’s hand while speaking to her like a grown up.

15. Feather fun

If your baby likes a gentler, safer tickle, a feather can do the trick.

16. Hurting yourself

It’s not ideal for you, but accidently-on-purpose walking into a wall, stubbing your toe or pretending to trip over may tempt a giggle out of your baby.