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From the moment your child is born they are learning. They learn new words, concepts, and ways of thinking every day and everywhere they go. Watching the people and the world around them, they develop language, literacy and social skills as well as emotional understanding, setting the stage for their
learning journey.
The first five years of life are especially important for brain development. During this time, your child will acquire many skills and concepts through play and interactions with others. That is why you are your child’s first and best teacher.
As a parent, you may feel you are so busy taking care of your family that you do not have enough time to plan learning activities for your child. However, now that you know your child will learn through everyday routines and activities and while simply listening to and watching you, you can make a significant difference through simple interactions, such as:
· Greeting your child each morning and talking as you change their diaper or clothing to help them learn words and concepts.
· Being attentive to your child’s needs and soothing them when they cry to help your child develop self-regulation skills.
· Talking with your child during mealtimes and playtime or rocking your infant to sleep to help them develop language and communication skills.
· Everyday moments – riding in the car or on a bus, taking a walk, eating a snack or lunch, taking a bath, shopping, getting dressed, playing with toys, and listening to you read a book (see list below)– are all opportunities for learning.
Here are some great book ideas to share with your child:
“I Am Too Absolutely Small for School” by Lauren Child
“If You Take a Mouse to School” by Laura Numeroff
“Rafa’s First Day” by Dave Mills
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