Parents most important teachers, experts say

Family spending time together, both parent accompanying their sons playing and learning. CONTRIBUTED

The first five years are the most important for your child’s brain development.

Brain research shows that parents can make a big difference in a baby or toddler’s development by talking, reading and singing with them every day.

“Children are born with a tremendous ability to learn – but it also matters what interactions they have,” says Los Angeles-based Dr. Alma Guerrero of the UCLA Geffen School of Medicine.

Reading stories, talking about every activities like grocery shopping or cooking, or singing a silly song – all help your baby or toddler build a foundation for health development. Science tell us that this early learning – from birth to age five – can set the stage for a child’s achievement in school and even their career.

This also includes reading and speaking in whatever language you feel most comfortable – researchers have shown that speaking more than one language at home gives your child a great advantage and prepares them for success.

“The great news is that it doesn’t have to cost anything – the best things a parent can do are free,” says Dr. Margaret Yonekura, Executive Director of the L.A. Best Babies Network. “Talking with your child, giving them an appreciation of books and the written word, playing with pots and pans in the kitchen to make music – these are all activities than can be folded into every day.”

​Parents are the most important teachers – so get the support you need to be the best parent you can be.

To find free and low-cost programs like parenting classes, developmental screenings, plus assistance with finding childcare, preschools and health services, all in your language, call 211.

“2-1-1 LA’s goal for every caller is to focus on the individual needs of each child to grow and thrive and to help equip parents and caregivers with the tools they need to best support their child,” says Patricia Herrera, Program Director for 211.