AW BAND Ef BH PLS TH f) WP. | PiNgee POINTERS FOR PARENTS How To Make The Most Of The Early Years by Rob Reiner, actor, director and founder of the | Am Your Child Foundation (NAPSA)—Reading, singing, playing and just talking are more than fun activities you can share with your children. Because a child’s brain develops so quickly during the early years, interactions such as these can dramatically improve a child’s ability to reach his greatest poten- tial in school, andin life. Whether you're a new parent, a grandparent, a friend or a babysit- ter, you can make a difference by following these simple tips recom- mended by the non-profit 1 Am Your Child Foundation. Many more pointers for parents are available in the Foundation’s award-winning six-video series. e Create a Reading Routine— Reading aloud is one of the best ways parents can help their chil- dren develop language skills and enter school ready to succeed. Interacting while you're reading Simple activities such as reading and singing can help give a child a head startin life. early in life. Use Child Safety Devices— Sadly, accidental injury is one of the leading causes of brain damage among young children. You carry a tune, sing! It’s one of the can reduce that risk by childproofing your homeand always using a child safety seat when driving. Studies show that 80 percent of car seats are installed incorrectly, so it’s a good idea to arrange for a free inspection from a qualified professional. You don’t need fancy equip- brain. late a child’s mind and help him can make the experience even more meaningful, so try pointing to pictures in a book or turning the pages together. e Sing Together—Singing isn’t just fun, it helps young children learn new wordsand explore their creativity. So, even if you can’t best ways to stimulate a child’s e Eat Right—If you’re preg- nant or breastfeeding, your child eats what you eat, so it’s important to choose a balanced diet. As your baby gets older, proper nutrition is just as important. You help to shape your child’s body by helping her establish good health and nutrition habits ment or expensive tools to stimu- crow up happy and healthy. All it takes is time, love, and a little knowledge. For more tips to make the most of a child’s early years, order the I Am Your Child Foundation video series at www.iamyourchild.org or 1-888-447-3400.
