Child Development and Early Learning

Supporting Information

Care and affection during the first years help a child thrive. Holding, cuddling and talking to the child stimulate growth and promote emotional development. Being kept close to the mother and breastfed on demand also provide the infant with a sense of security. The baby needs to suckle for both nutrition and comfort.

Boys and girls have the same physical, mental, emotional and social needs. Both have the same capacity for learning. And both have the same need for affection, attention and approval.

Crying is a young child's way of communicating his or her needs. Responding promptly to the child's cry by holding and talking soothingly to her or him will help establish a sense of trust and security.

Children who are anaemic, malnourished or frequently sick may become fearful and upset more easily than healthy children and will lack the drive to play, explore and interact with others. These children need special attention and encouragement to eat.

Children's emotions are real and powerful. They may become frustrated if they are unable to do something or have something they want. Children are often frightened of strangers or the dark. Children whose reactions are laughed at, punished or ignored may grow up shy and unable to express emotions normally. If caregivers are patient and sympathetic when a child expresses strong emotions, the child is more likely to grow up happy, secure and well balanced.

Physical punishment or displays of violence can harm the child's development. Children who are punished in anger are more likely to become violent themselves. Clear explanations about what to do, firm rules about what not to do and praise for good behaviour are more effective ways of encouraging children to become full and productive members of the family and community.

Both parents, as well as other family members, need to be involved in caring for the children. The father's role is especially important. The father can help meet the child's needs for love, affection and stimulation and ensure the child receives a good quality education, good nutrition and health care. The father can help ensure that the environment is safe and free of violence. Fathers can also perform household tasks, particularly when the mother is pregnant or breastfeeding.