Parenting toddlers can be extremely challenging as young children are curious and want to learn which translates to they have strong likes and dislikes and are learning to be independent and push to the limit. This means you need to provide a huge amount of guidance and support.

Growing and learning

The first years of your child's life are undoubtedly the most important in terms of development and throw up a number of issues you may be concerned about from speech and language delay to concerns about crying, indeed to a whole series of things that may concern you.

Sometimes speaking to parents who are experiencing similar circumstances to you can be a great way to get valuable advice and information.

The Parents Centre also provides information and support for parents on how to help with your child's learning, including advice on choosing a school and finding childcare:

www.parentcentre.co.uk

Activities for toddlers and young children

The quickest development of your child's brain takes place between their birth and the age of two.

By building a few simple learning games into your child's daily routines and helping them investigate their environment, you can help give them the best possible start.  You may look at interesting things, touch a variety of objects, listen to a range of sounds like songs, rhymes, stories, music, taste a range of flavours, investigate, explore and play. Most importantly talk to your infant /toddler and encourage two way communication from the very first time you hold them in your arms.

Reading together is a great activity as is learning about numbers and shapes or just even spending time together.

There are numerous classes for babies, toddlers and young children in Liverpool and Merseyside.  Activities include baby signing, music for babies and young children, swimming for the under fives, children's yoga, baby ballet, baby massage, messy crafts and many more.  You can find a full listing at:

www.kidsguide.co.uk

Childhood fears and safety

Almost all children can be frightened by anything from loud noises to meeting strangers to being in the dark.  It is important to reassure your child and to help them understand the difference between real dangers and an experience they might just not understand.  Remember every child is different and you should never make fun of a fear.  Instead deal with the fears and help them to learn about safety.

Childalert provides information, advice, products and services relating to child safety in the home and in the community.

www.childalert.co.uk

Take care of yourself

It is tough being a parent and you need to take care of yourself.  Ask for help if the pressure and stress feel like too much and remember you need a short break even if that is only to listen to music, read or take a bath.