One of the main challenges of looking after a child is staying sane whilst you read them the same story or play the same very basic game over and over again – and finding things for them to do when they suddenly appear to be bored of everything.
Like so many other aspects of childcare, your own experience will vary. Some babies are better at occupying themselves than others and some demand more attention than others. It’s a good idea to rotate their toys: if all the toys are out at once then your baby can be overwhelmed, and putting toys they’re bored with away out of sight means you can bring them out again a few weeks later with much of their novelty value restored.
Similarly, a bored baby will often perk up if taken to play in a different room.
If you’re working from home, a baby who will occupy themselves for some of the time is a godsend, so be grateful for every quiet moment. Keeping an eye on your baby whilst getting something constructive done is a tricky piece of multi-tasking, which of course we are regularly told that men cannot do. This is patently untrue, however.
Though it isn’t easy, splitting your attention this way engages different parts of your brain and helps stop you from getting bored too. Try to involve your child in whatever you do, even if it's just making them some food or tidying up - you'll be surprised how helpful they can be. Going out for a walk with your child is a good way to have a break from the house, and you also get a bit of headspace to think about any work you might have to do later.
There are also tons of activities you can do to keep them occupied (making coloured dough, banging pots and pans, messing around with objects in water) and it's always worth asking friends for new ideas.
Above all, try to keep sane, phone people if you need some adult contact, and make sure you take ten minutes for yourself when they're napping!