Why tummy time is important How to do tummy time Making tummy time interesting, fun and safe Languages other than English

Play is important for newborn cognitive development.Through play, your baby begins to learn about you, their world, and concepts like movement and colour. Newborn play ideas include talking, sharing books and pictures, singing, exploring outside and playing with soft toys.

Through play, newborns learn what their bodies can do and build their motor skills.Newborns gain more control of their bodies as they develop during the early weeks.Play ideas for newborn motor development include tummy time, floor time and, as they get a bit older, play with rattles and dangling objects.

Following your child’s lead is good because your child learns most when he’s interested in play.You don’t need any special equipment for child-led play.Child-led play starts with noticing what your child is interested in and then going along with it.

Reading and storytelling with your child promotes brain development and imagination, teaches your child about language and emotions, and strengthens your relationship.You don’t always need to read books. Try looking at picture books, singing rhymes and songs, or telling stories from your culture. Try to share at least one book or story each day.

Numeracy is the ability to apply maths concepts in all areas of life.You can help children develop numeracy and maths skills, and positive feelings about maths, through everyday activities like counting, looking at shapes, and talking about sizes.It’s good to build your child’s numeracy and maths skills through play. For example, try singing number songs.

Right from birth, your child learns by playing and exploring in a safe and stimulating environment.Your child’s key relationships help her learn communication, thinking and problem-solving skills.Your child learns best by being involved in learning, playing actively, and trying lots of different activities with your support and encouragement.

Young children don’t need special or expensive toys for learning and development. In fact, with a little imagination, you can turn ordinary things around the house into homemade toys and free activities for kids.

There are so many toys out there, and juggling your child’s needs and wants – along with advertising and peer  influences – can be tricky. But the best toys for kids aren’t the most expensive or most complex – they’re the ones that stimulate your child’s imagination and thinking.

Posting photos of or comments about your child can be a nice way to share your child’s special moments, especially when you cannot be with family in person. But be aware of privacy concerns, as images and comments can’t be entirely removed from the internet. With older children, also ask how your child feels about you posting photos, videos and comments about her.