Love is a universal language, which connects humans together.
Play is the way in which a child expresses him/herself. To play with a child is to affirm, listen and nurture the very being of a child. Playing with a child is love in itself, both for the child and caregiver. Play nurtures early relationships and learning.
The Precious Years BookAfter working for many years with parents, I realised that there are many assumptions about early child development. I enjoy sharing knowledge with parents and caregivers and think that this is ‘power’. If we understand our children we can ‘know, see and hear’ them better. This in itself is affirming to the child or love towards a child. The precious Years book was written for parents and caregivers to support an understanding of early child development: stages and areas of development with some ideas for simple, pure and fun play. It is my hope that ‘The Precious Years’ book will be widely used to support and promote precious early relationships.
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Early Intervention |
I am passionate about intervention in the early years, which is the time for optimal brain development and plasticity or adaptability. Connections in the brain are formed based on early experiences and learning. The buffer in life and especially in the sensitive early years seems to be love and acceptance. Most babies go through tough times, even a teething baby needs much support. Some babies experience difficult births, or circumstances and may need more support. Parents may also need support if their baby has faced difficulties. This is early intervention.
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Support and ResourcesMost parents need support. And this support may come in different ways, most often from close family and friends. There are many community organisations that also give support, such as mom and baby groups, social interest groups, faith based institutions, and centres or NGOs that offer parent support. If a need for parental support is felt, find this within a local community. Some babies may need extra support in their development by a therapist, then find the required support in your local area.
A resource page is under development. In the meantime browse the other pages on the website. Please contact me if you have any suggestions for resources. |