Playing and learning

You can help your child learn by encouraging and supporting her natural desire to understand how the world works. In other words, she doesn't need to be told — she will discover on her own through play.

Brain development

During your child's first three years, nerve cells in the brain grow and connect to form systems that control things like moving, thinking, remembering and expressing emotions. Most of these systems are formed as children interact with their parents, caregivers, other people or objects. When children have experiences over and over again, these nerve systems become permanent and shape the way they think and behave.

The most important ingredient in making sure your child has every chance to grow a strong, resourceful brain is a secure, loving relationship with you and others. This means:

• Interacting with your child as much as you can by talking, playing, singing or reading.
• Lots of holding and cuddling. (This causes the child's brain to release hormones he needs to grow.)

Responding to your child's signals and cues - including sounds, movements, facial expressions, and the way she makes or avoids eye contact. This helps her learn not only how to communicate but also that her needs and feelings are important.

• Praising and encouraging your child, which helps him learn about being understood.
• Establishing regular routines and rituals.
• Creating a safe environment for exploring.
• Choosing quality child care, both short-term (babysitting) and long-term (day care).
• Being selective about what your child watches on TV.
• Finding opportunities to teach behaviours that work well with groups of children and adults.