Show your love, acceptance and appreciation frequently, through words, smiles and loving touch.
When children receive warm, responsive care, they are more likely to feel safe and secure. Find ways to connect with your baby right away. Whether it's bath time, reading together in the rocker, or even at the changing table, there are countless opportunities every day not just to "help out," but also to be a parent. Infants can't use words to communicate their moods, preferences, or needs, but they send many signals to the adults who care for them. Pay close attention so your child knows that when she smiles, someone will smile back; that when she is upset, someone will comfort her; that when she is hungry, someone will feed her.

Talk, read, and sing to your child
Making up stories about daily events, singing songs about the people and places they know, describing what is happening during daily routines -- all of these "conversations" give your child a solid basis for later learning. When babies hear you say words over and over again, the parts of their brains that handle speech and language develop. The more language babies hear in these "conversations," the more those parts of their brains will grow and develop. Talking, singing, and reading to your child are also wonderful opportunities for closeness with your child.

Establish routines and rituals
One toddler knows it is nap time when his mom sings a song and closes the curtains, as she always does. Another toddler knows it is almost time for her dad to pick her up when her child care provider gives her milk and crackers. Daily routines and repeated positive experiences reassure children and help them feel secure. They help a child understand what to expect from his environment.

Encourage safe exploration and play
In the first few months of life, parents and caregivers are a child's whole world. Playing with your child helps him learn about the world. It's a wonderful fact that mom's and dad's styles of play can complement each other. Different ways of playing (quiet and calm, or active and physical) are important to your child's developing curiosity and self confidence.

Limit the amount of time your child spends in front of the TV
Television by itself can't teach an infant language, and it can't teach him how to communicate. Studies show that children who learn best in school have families who limit the amount of time they spend in front of the TV and are selective as to the kinds of shows they watch.

Use discipline as an opportunity to teach
Set firm, fair limits and give reasonable consequences for harmful/dangerous behavior. As children grow and explore their ever-expanding world, they need limits and consistent, loving, adult supervision. Don't expect your young child to do what you say all the time, and NEVER HIT OR SHAKE A CHILD. Young children will yell, hit, or have temper tantrums at times. Helping children learn self-control is a long-term process. It is normal for children to "test" rules by breaking them. When you respond in a supportive, consistent way, you help your child to feel safe in the world.

Recognize that each child is unique
Children have different temperaments: one child is outgoing, while her brother is more bashful and slow to warm up. Children also grow at different rates physically and emotionally. Their ideas and feelings about themselves reflect your attitude toward them. Tell them they are wonderful and they will feel wonderful about themselves!

Choose quality child care and stay involved
Choosing a child care provider is one of the most important decisions families make. Research shows that high quality child care and early education can boost children's learning and social skills when they enter school.

Take care of yourself
Parents and caregivers need care, too. Taking care of our children is the most important and wonderful job in our society. But don't get overwhelmed before you take care of yourself. If you feel good, you'll be able to give more to your child and your partner. Reach out and ask for help from family, friends, neighbors, pediatricians, child care providers and others.

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