The Basics

The Basics are five fun, simple and powerful ways that every family can use to give every child a great start in life!

Maximize Love, Manage Stress:
Babies and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe and predictable. Respond with smiles, words and touch to help them see, hear and feel your love. You will help them develop a sense of security and self-control.

Talk, Sing, and Point:
Babies learn language from the moment they are born. Respond to their sounds, and later, their words. Connect with eye contact and a loving tone of voice, while pointing to help them know what you are talking about.

Count, Group, and Compare:
Every child’s brain is wired for math. Talk about numbers, shapes, patterns, and comparisons as you go about your routines together. Watch your child learn to love math.

Explore Through Movement and Play:
Babies are like scientists who love making discoveries. Watch to see what interests your child, then encourage their curiosity and help them learn when they play and explore.

Read and Discuss Stories:
Reading turns kids into confident thinkers. Make books a regular part of your relationship from the very beginning. With infants, point at the pictures and speak with excitement. With toddlers, just make it fun.

Resources

Basics Insights:

Tips to prepare your child for school and life.

The Basics Tip Sheets:

Grouped by age range to help your child navigate his or her earliest months.

The Basics One Pager – English:

Do all five principles every day to help your child become the amazing person you know they can be.

¿QUÉ SON “THE BASICS”? – En Espanol:

¡Pon en práctica “The Basics” todos los días para ayudar a tu niño a convertirse en esa persona maravillosa que sabes que puede ser!

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