Your 12-month-old probably will enjoy some mild roughhousing, such as tickling or lying on top of you in a big bear hug, but she's too young to hold on for piggyback rides.
Being physically playful with your child is a great way to bond and to have fun, "but keep it very gentle," says Lyuba Konopasek, associate professor of pediatrics at the New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City.
"And never include throwing a child or baby into the air in your roughhousing. The potential for a dangerous fall or neck injury isn't worth it," Konapasek says.
At 24 to 36 months old, your child probably will be able to hold on for piggyback rides — but go slowly and stay on a soft surface like carpet or grass, because even a short fall can be dangerous for a small child.
Avoid swinging your child by her arms. It may seem like harmless fun to you, but it's not uncommon for children to suffer dislocated shoulders or elbows from this.