YOU make the difference
The first years of a child’s life are the most important because they are developing so quickly and learning so much. It can also be a scary, frustrating and emotionally draining time for a new parent. The good news is that you don’t have to be a perfect parent to make a huge difference to your child’s life. You just need to be good enough for most of the time.
The other great news is that you don’t have to be a qualified teacher to teach your child. Your child is learning from everything that is going on around them and you are teaching them by talking, listening, singing, playing and just having fun together. Check out our age related Adventures at Home pages for information about what to expect your child to be doing at that age and some easy activities to develop your child’s learning and progress.
Click age range for suggested 'Adventures at Home'
All children learn in different ways
Some children are lively, bouncing around and moving from one thing to another without seeming to take it in, others are quieter, watching, listening. Some children seem to want their own space, others want your company. However your child learns, you can do lots to support them onto the next stage of their development.
Physical Development
Provide lots of opportunities for your child to develop their body, stretching, rolling, jumping, climbing. Don't forget their small movements too. Activities such as threading, picking up peas with finger and thumb, all contribute towards strong muscles and a child who is confident to move around their environment.
Emotional development
Children need good relationships with their key adults before they can go on to learn. You can't over cuddle a baby and even independent toddlers and older children need to know you are there for them. Spend time together being close. Even when you're not feeling like it, smile at your child and respond warmly to them.
Language and Communication
This is really important if we want our children to be confident learners. Talk to them about what's going on, use questions to prompt different answers. Allow them time to respond, even before they are using words, they are communicating back using their body and babbles. Sing songs and rhymes each day too.
Parents
Parents who spend lots of time playing and talking to their children find that they spend less time managing difficult behaviour. They also have better relationships with their child.
Children
Children feel more secure and are far more independent if their parents and carers have spent time showing them how to do things and reading books. They love their special time.
Nursery
Nursery staff say they notice the difference in children when their parents and carers have spent time playing and talking with them. They arrive at school ready to learn.