Babies are learning from the moment they are born. At first they learn by watching and listening, and eventually, by doing. Babies learn through their bodies long before they can talk. It is important that we give our children confidence and a safe environment in which to grow and lean.

Babies derive great pleasure from sucking on their fingers and hands. At first they don't even realize that their hands are connected to their bodies, so it is only by "accident" that they get to experience the joy of sucking on them. Once they figure it out, it takes great control and skill to get their hands to their mouths every single time. Babies also love faces and voice at this early stage of life. They recognize their own parents voices from birth, and recognize their faces within days. Babies also love rocking and plenty of cuddle time. Both remind them of being in the womb, and it gives them a sense of great comfort, warmth, and love.

Once your baby reaches 6-12 months a lot is happening and a lot has changed. Babies at this age are becoming mobile. They learn to roll, sit, crawl, and eventually walk. They have become very aware of their surroundings and cause and effect is a great learning tool at this stage. They love trying to figure out what will happen if they throw their bottle out of the crib, or toss their food from the high chair, or pull the dogs hair. It is fun for them to see if the same thing yields the same results when done dozens and dozens of times. They love making noises, and sound effects, they love toys they can grasp and hold onto and toys that play music or have sounds. Things still go directly to their mouths. They need lots of space to explore, and baby proofing is a must now. They still love to snuggle and rock, but also enjoy floor time too. Most will develop separation anxiety during this stage. They're okay to play alone as long as your nearby and they can see you. Your baby's personality will start to emerge at this stage. They may be easy going and laid back, or loud and demanding. They may like to have a lot of alone time, or they may be clingy and need constant attention and reassurance. They may be silly, happy and laughing all the time, or easily startled and sensitive. It is our job as parents to recognize our children's specific traits and needs, and give them a safe, comfortable environment to help them thrive.

1 and 2 year olds are in the toddler stage. They are extremely mobile and very active. They are walking, running, and climbing. They love toys they can push, pull or ride on. They can't usually pedal at this age, but toys they move with their feet are great. They love kicking and throwing balls, and trying to catch them as well, although most aren't able to yet. Many are extremely adept at climbing, and most have no fear, so you must be very aware at all times of your surroundings. Toddlers love blocks and other items they can stack and then knock or kick over. Many have a favorite picture book by now, and love being read to. They love bath time and bubbles. Splashing and kicking, and filling and pouring water into different size cups and containers. Never leave them unattended at this age. Children of this age do not play well with others and don't understand sharing. Side by side play is the norm for 1 and 2 year olds. They may have a few words, but can't express themselves fully, so tantrums become very common. They do however, understand way more than they can say, so they love "helping" by retrieving an item you ask for, or showing off their knowledge of animal sounds or body parts. They still look to mom and dad for comfort, and still want them nearby for comfort and reassurance, although cuddle time and rocking are becoming far less.

2 and 3 year olds are quickly leaving the baby years behind them. Potting training will soon be in full force, and your child will take great pride in picking out their new big girl/boy undies. Kids of this age are very curious and still very active. They still are not great at sharing. They take a few more risks, they love ride on toys and some will start to learn how to pedal, going to the park to swing, slide and climb is one of their favorite activities. Pretend play is starting to take root, they enjoy copying mom and dad. They love super heroes and princesses, they love playing dress up, putting on make up and painting their nails (even little boys love theses things). They love helping dad with yard work, planting and watering flowers, digging, mowing, and using their own little set of tools. They are learning by leaps and bounds, and many can count a bit and recognize a few colors. They enjoy singing and dancing and have a great sense of humor. Most are starting to dress themselves, but may put an item on backwards, or inside out, or shoes on the wrong feet. They still need help with zippers, buttons, snaps, and ties. It is important to encourage them, and praise rather than criticize their efforts.

3 and 4 year olds are inquisitive, verbal and love being helpful. They enjoy helping out in the kitchen, and performing small tasks, such as taking their plate to the sink or putting their dirty clothes in the hamper. They might even help you "dust" or fold clothes. They love make believe, and pretend play is more important than ever. Play kitchens, doll houses, strollers and cribs, tool sets, cars, trucks, legos and army men are all great toys that encourage imagination and pretend play. 3 and 4 year olds also love puzzles, play dough, drawing and painting. They still enjoy most of the outdoor activities as they did when they were younger. They are quite capable of making and being a friend now. Sharing is a concept that they understand, and they understand hurt feelings, and what it means to be nice and not so nice. Many children this age will start "school" and truly enjoy the independence that goes along with it. They are like little sponges, and love learning. They enjoy the occasional play date and going to and having their own birthday parties. They are still into princesses and super heroes, they think they are real because the concept of real versus make believe is very fuzzy. They get frightened of things that are not real, and believe whole heartedly in Santa Claus, the Tooth fairy, and the Easter bunny.

4 and 5 year olds are getting ready for school and most are eager to get there. The idea of "big" school is very appealing. They think they are all grown up and can't wait to take that leap into the world. Children of this age love to know how things work, and are constantly asking "why" or "how". They are very adept at peddling and some may even ride a bike without training wheels. They have good balance, and can jump and climb with ease. Their hand eye coordination is improving, so some can dribble a ball, hit a ball off of a tee, or catch a larger ball when thrown slowly to them. They love silly songs, and rhymes, and bathroom humor is just about the most hilarious thing they've ever said or heard. (Example: MOM: "Joey, what would you like for dinner?" JOEY: "A poopy burger!" hahahaha!). Thankfully this phase passes. Kids this age are still very active, they love to play games like hide and seek and tag, they love the park, but generally add climbing and leaping off the equipment to their routine. They love pretend play and are very imaginative and creative. They love problem solving activities and games. Most can easily play simple board games, although they will usually do anything (like cheating) to win. They are fairly sore losers, so it is important to let them win on occasion, but to also start teaching them good sportsmanship, and being a gracious loser. They think learning is fun, and enjoy and are truly amazed at some of the things they learn in school. Most, at this age, are eager to tell you about their day and show off their newly learned skills. It is important for you at ask questions and listen to your child, and to be fully engaged when they're telling you about their day. Friends are becoming more important, although most are not yet ready for sleepovers. They are becoming more aware of differences and what other children are allowed or not allowed to do. They may test the waters a little bit to see what they can or can't get away with. Stay firm as his/her parent, let them know that "at our house we do it this way, or don't watch that show, or say those words." Most have outgrown naps, but a good nights sleep is critical for growth, development and learning. Many kids at this age are starting to play video games or sit in front of a computer screen. Parents need to monitor these activities closely and make sure their child is still getting plenty of exercise every day.

Playing is crucial to the young childs development, and sense of well being. Play lets kids practice skills over and over again. It lets them develop ideas and figure out the world around them. "Play is not a break from learning, it IS the way young children learn."

It is important to note that all children develop differently and not all children will act and behave in the same manner. Not all children will like the same things, and all will surely have different ideas and opinions about most everything. Let your child set the pace, and remember, just when you think you have one problem taken care of, something else will pop up in its place! I am not a doctor, and the above statements are my opinions and what I have learned from raising my three boys, from reading a great deal, and being around loads of other kids throughout the years. If you have concerns about your child, please see a doctor or child professional.