You can’t start too young when it comes to shaping a baby’s emotional and cognitive development. Some people believe that what you say or feel around a baby doesn’t matter because they are too young to understand. They couldn’t be more wrong!

A baby spends nine months in the womb, experiencing emotions and hearing voices. Although now separate, they remain tuned to feelings and tone of voice. Birth is a shock, even after a positive pregnancy and smooth delivery. Keeping that sense of safety and connection after birth is essential.

Babies need warmth and the sound of a heartbeat as often as possible. This is why experts recommend not leaving a newborn alone in a separate room during the early months. Talking and singing to babies strengthens their sense of self and builds self-esteem.

The Value of Routine

Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability. This should start early. The good news for busy parents is that babies and toddlers don’t tell time. They find comfort in sequences, not schedules. If the routine is food, potty, then bath, the order matters more than precise timing.

Once toddlers express disobedience, it should be handled firmly yet gently. Ignoring it allows bad habits to form. Early guidance shapes future behavior. Problematic toddler behavior often begins in infancy.

How Children Learn

Babies and young children learn from their environment. They observe what you do and say. For example, playing or talking to a baby in the middle of the night confuses them about the difference between night and day.

The proverb out of sight, out of mind is true for small children. Instead of removing everything within reach, teach them what they can and cannot touch. If a child never encounters off-limit objects, they won’t learn self-control. Moving everything out of reach prevents them from understanding boundaries.

Children need to experience limits to develop responsibility. Firm boundaries and structured routines teach right from wrong. These also create a sense of security and show that you care.