12 messages for raising a healthy child.
 

The first years last forever.
 Wiring a brain is like wiring a house—it works better if you start from the beginning.

 Love & affection cannot spoil a baby.
Crying means something. Be warm, loving & pick up your child to see what they need. Use their sounds, movements & expressions as cues.

Talk, read, & sing to your child.
You are your child's first teacher.

 Have a regular schedule.
Children find comfort in the same routine every day.

 Play is the work of the young child.
Encourage safe exploration & play.

 Pay attention to your child.
Be aware of how, where & with whom your child spends time. Choose TV, videos & internet carefully.

 Take care of yourself.
You cannot take care of your child, if your basic needs are not also being met.

 Discipline to teach not punish.
Use discipline as an opportunity to teach appropriate behavior. Never hit or shake a child.

 Choose child care carefully & stay involved.
For local information on approved childcare sites call LINK @ 1-800-894-9540.

 Children develop at different rates.
Celebrate each child.

 Give your child a childhood.
Children need unstructured time. More is not always better.

 Your child needs to know she matters.
Show your child she is loved for who she is.