By Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H.
Every little thing is new and interesting to your baby and toddler. Babies are naturally curious and want to explore the world. Encourage that curiosity and love of learning by creating safe places for your child to discover. Young children learn best when activities are meaningful and their senses are engaged. Letting your baby explore and use his five senses will help him learn about the world and make connections. You are your child’s most important teacher, play with your baby and share in his excitement of the world.
Everything you need for teaching your child is all around you. While at home, explore the feel of soap, the smell of an apple and the sound of music. Let your baby explore safe items like wooden spoons and cardboard boxes. Walk around your neighborhood and listen to the sound of a barking dog or smell the flowers growing in the yard. Go to the park and describe the surface of tree bark and let your baby crinkle a leaf in his hand. Take your baby to the beach and let him feel the sand between his toes.
There is so much for your baby to learn. You are the best teacher and the world is the best classroom. Enjoy time playing with your baby and showing him the world.
Kerri Kreh Reda, M.P.H., is a Human Development Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program. She can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 330 or at kkr5@cornell.edu.