They say with age comes wisdom, but did you know that about 90% of a child’s brain development occurs before age five? Babies are born learning. That’s why the early years are so important. You can make the most of those years-- by learning how to make the most of everyday moments.

The relationships you have with your children are what helps them feel safe to explore their environment and learn. Your facial expressions, your voice and touch – everything you do and say in front of a child – helps your child learn. These interactions with children are far more important than fancy toys or TV shows. Your loving care affects your child’s brain development, which includes their excitement and curiosity for learning, how they express their emotions, how they relate to other adults, and how well they play with siblings and friends.

The Early Years Institute (EYI) has a list of ideas for what to do with your children to stimulate brain development, what toys to buy or make, where to take them, and resources to show how you can help them succeed in school and life. All of the ideas presented on this website are based on scientific research. You can always find other websites that offer you books and resources for parenting, but you can be sure that EYI will provide you with only the latest and most valuable information on what helps children learn and grow.