
The Most Important Factor
Learn why you matter most in your child’s growth and development.
You matter most in your child’s growth and development. No matter what comes their way, research shows that kids are more likely to thrive with a caring and committed adult in their lives. Think of all you do for your little one. Take a minute to celebrate all that you do. It’s the little moments that count!
Each loving action has a positive impact on your child’s development:
- When you hold your little one, soothe her, and simply spend time together, you show her that she will always be cared for. This builds her security and helps grow her confidence to learn and try new things.
- When you talk with your child, ask him questions, and read books to him, you build his language skills, teach him new words and help him learn to understand spoken and printed language.
- When you take your child with you as you run errands, and make her your helper around the house, you teach her how the world works and spark her curiosity.
- When you play together and spend time outside, you build your child’s creativity and his thinking skills.

The Power of Following Children’s Lead
Joining children in their play offers so many opportunities to encourage, communicate, bond, spark and share joy, teach, show warmth and kindness, and help them thrive.

Parenting Moment: Describing
The way you talk with children matters! Your words have power.

Parenting Moment: Imitating
Playing is learning! The way you play with children matters… your actions and words have power.

Parenting Moment: Reflecting
The way you talk with children matters… your words have power!

Parenting Moment: Enjoying!
Showing you enjoy your time together with your child builds your special bond. And when you’re being positive, your little one is more likely to do the same.

Milestones: Your Baby’s First Year
All children grow and develop at their own pace; use this chart to guide your expectations and observations so you can talk to your child’s pediatrician about questions or concerns.

Milestones: Your 18-Month Old
All children grow and develop at their own pace; use this chart to guide your expectations and observations so you can talk to your child’s pediatrician about questions or concerns.