Parents section

• How you can help your baby's development
• From toddlerhood to starting school: how you can help your child learn
• What parents say
• What you can expect from early years services
• What to do if you're concerned about your child's development
• More help and information

How you can help your baby's development

Babies are born completely dependent. You will need to do everything for your baby to make sure they get the security, protection, food, sleep and physical care they need.

But even though very young babies might seem to do nothing but sleep and eat (not to mention cry!), they are affected by everything that is happening around them. The care you give your baby makes a major difference to their emotional and brain development.

• Babies can't manage their own stress. When you hold and soothe your baby, she knows she is safe and can relax.

• Babies need love. When you look and smile at your baby, he knows he matters and feels secure.

• Babies love faces and voices! When your baby looks at your face and you chat to her, she is learning and developing.

It can be exhausting looking after a baby and it can take time to get to know your baby and what he likes and needs. Remember to look after yourself and ask for help when you need it so that you have got the energy to look after your baby – and enjoy it.

Birth to toddlerhood: what do babies need to build a foundation for learning?

Also in this section

• From toddlerhood to starting school: how you can help your child learn
• What parents say
• What you can expect from early years services
• What to do if you're concerned about your child's development
• More help and information