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.
Watch and Play: Abby's Magical Beasties
Watch this episode and explore ways to extend the learning at home.
For Providers: Using These Resources
Print and refer to this page as you implement the materials in this initiative.
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!
Adult Teamwork in Children's Tough Moments
When it comes to supporting little ones with big feelings, providers and caregivers work better together!
Milestones: Your Six-Year-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.
