Playing with a baby or toddler

In the first years, play is how a child learns. It does not need special toys. A loving grown-up who talks, sings, plays and reads is the best learning tool there is.

Follow the child's lead

Get down to their level. Watch what they look at or reach for, and join in. Wait a moment after you speak or sing, to let them answer with a sound, a smile or a gesture.

If your child turns away, closes their eyes or gets fussy, they are telling you they have had enough. Take a break.

Keep it short, calm and often

A few minutes at a time, many times a day, is better than one long session. Everyday moments count: bath, meals, getting dressed, a walk.

Repeat the same song, game or book many times. Little ones learn by repeating.

Talk, sing and read from day one

Say what you are doing: “Now we put on your sock.” Sing, even if you do not think you can carry a tune. Share a picture book and point at the pictures.

You can do this in any language or in several. Use the language you feel closest to.

What you need

• Your voice, your face and your hands
• A soft cloth, a wooden spoon, a plastic cup, a safe mirror
• A few board books and a basket of safe household things
• A blanket on the floor, indoors or outdoors

Safety first

Always watch your child during play, and check toys and household things for small parts and other dangers. This guide is general and is not medical advice. If you worry about your child's development, talk with your paediatrician.

Where this comes from

• World Health Organization, UNICEF and World Bank Group, Nurturing Care for Early Childhood Development: A Framework (2018)
• Michael Yogman, Andrew Garner, Jeffrey Hutchinson, Kathy Hirsh-Pasek and Roberta Golinkoff, “The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children”, Pediatrics 142 (2018), American Academy of Pediatrics clinical report

Written with AI assistance and checked against the sources listed. Please read it before sharing it with a child.