Parenting the right way
SPENDING quality time with your children in their infancy is important for their development. Here are 11 tips from the Early Childhood Commission to ensure a great start:
1. Hold your child
Loving touches are a powerful way to stimulate positive mental, physical and social development.
2. Respond to your child’s signals
Your baby communicates through facial expressions, movements and sounds. Sensitive responses build a child’s trust and self-esteem.
3. Talk with your child
Even babies can recognise voices, sentence rhythm and word meanings. Encourage their self-esteem with positive words spoken tenderly.
4. Play with your child
Have fun together. The greatest gifts you can give your child are your time and attention.
5. Read with your child
Early exposure to books and words will help children to get ready to start school.
6. Feed your child well
Breastfeeding is best for mental and emotional development. As your child grows, prepare healthy meals for the whole family.
7. Keep your child healthy
Make sure your child gets enough rest, up-to-date immunisations, and regular medical and dental check-ups.
8. Use positive discipline
Give your child and yourself a time-out instead of hitting or spanking.
9. Recognise signs of stress
Children may feel stress when hungry, when receiving too much or too little attention, or when in unfamiliar environments.
10. Establish routines
A child enjoys the security of certain routines such as set times for bed, reading, meals or family activities.
11. Take care of yourself
If you are tired, unhappy or irritable, your child will reflect your mood. Get enough rest and ask for help when needed.
