About 85 percent of brain development happens in the first five years of life. Talking and reading with your children from birth onward builds neural pathways in the brain to support holistic development. So let’s talk and read – it’s just that easy!
Learning Begins at home
- Talk, sing and read aloud with your child often!
- Encourage your child to pretend, be their audience and see what they come up with! You will be pleasantly surprised - and all it takes is a little bit of your time! (and just so you know… that is really all they want)
- Teach them to catch or kick a ball – be sure to let them know that they are the best at it!
- And don’t forget to say, “I love you.”
Babies
- Hold your baby, talk to your baby – ask your baby questions and tell her what you are busy doing. When your baby babbles be sure to answer!
- Babies learn through all their senses. Play with blocks, balls, and shapes (and let them chew!). Let your baby have some quiet time on a blanket on the floor where they can watch you as you get things done around the house such as making supper or helping an older child with an activity.
- And don’t forget to say, “I love you.”
Toddlers
- Things are going to start getting busy with a toddler in the house! Let them move, dance to music, twirl, jump and skip. Toys in the tub are a must – and you there with them makes it so much fun. While in the tub, write each other a letter with a pretend paper and pencil, it is fun to see what they come up with!
- When you are going out to get some groceries or stopping by the pet store, take time to let your toddler ‘check things out.’ Touch the soft dog and cat toys and ask them what they feel. Smell the bananas, take them to the bakery department and ask them what is that smell? If they can’t name it, help them out!
- And don’t forget to say, “I love you.”
Preschoolers
- Wow, now my child is 3 or 4 years old, where did the time go?! They are becoming more and more independent and love to explore and learn new things. Take them to the park and watch them go down the slide – oh, so fast! Be sure to let them know that they are amazing at everything they do.
- Show them that learning is fun. Make the first letter of their name with playdough or paint – or the old fashion way, with a crayon! Take time to go to the library, do community activities, and check out the Family Resource Centre!
- There is nothing better to end a day with than having mom or dad read a story before going to sleep. Let your child pick a story book and enjoy adding expression as you read.
- And don’t forget to say, “I love you.”
