Help your child's brain develop
through love and play

 Warm, Responsive Care ....

Talk with me, hug me, attend to my needs. Smile at me and make me feel secure. Routines and rituals are important for my development.

 Talk ....

My brain is making connections from what I hear you say. So, while we're together - at home, in the store, in the car - tell me what we're doing and seeing. Your words help me learn.

 Loving Touch ....

Cuddle me, cradle me, hold me close. Let me know that I am loved. Hugs help me learn to trust and handle stress, now and when I'm grown.

 Safe, Healthy Environment ....

Make sure I eat a variety of good foods, have regular checkups and my immunizations are current. Provide a safe environment for me to explore. During my first year, put me to sleep on my back.

 Play ....

Play is how I discover the world. Lots of interaction and exploration help my brain form connections that make learning easier. Limit my TV time; watch with me and talk with me to help me understand what I'm seeing.

 Music ....

Sing lullabies and simple rhymes with me. Play music for me. Music forms pathways in my brain that can help me understand math and improve my thinking skills.

 Read ....

Read books with lots of pictures to me. Don't worry if I want the same book read over and over again. Repetition is how I learn. Read to me often and I will learn to love reading forever.

 Quality Child Care ....

Make sure my caregiver loves me and responds to me. Check to see that my surroundings are safe, bright and happy. Be sure my caregiver is well-trained and understands my developmental needs.

 Teach Limits with Love ....

I learn by seeing and doing but need limits to make me feel safe and secure. Give me limits that teach -- and expect me to test them!

 Take Care of Yourself ....

When you feel tired or upset, it's harder for you to meet my needs. Reach out to friends and family for support, but never hurt or shake me.