1. Role of parents in optimising development

• Physical development

Parents can optimise physical development by providing:

• Nutritious food to support growth and development.

• Adequate sleep to allow the body and brain to grow and recover.

• Physical activity and active play to develop muscles, bones, coordination and motor skills.

• Healthcare, including regular check-ups and immunisation.

• A safe environment that protects children from injury and illness.

• Appropriate clothing, shelter and hygiene.

• Intellectual development

Parents can support intellectual development by:

• Talking and communicating with their child.

• Reading books and telling stories.

• Providing toys and activities that encourage learning.

• Encouraging curiosity and exploration.

• Helping children solve problems.

• Providing opportunities for education.

• Responding to children's questions and interests.

Emotional development

• Parents can support emotional development by:

  • Providing love, affection and security.

  • Responding consistently to the child's needs.

  • Encouraging children and praising achievements.

  • Helping children identify and express emotions.

  • Teaching children ways to manage emotions.

  • Establishing appropriate boundaries and expectations.

  • Developing a secure attachment with the child.

• Social development

Parents can promote social development by:

• Providing opportunities to interact with family and peers.

• Teaching appropriate social behaviours.

• Encouraging sharing, cooperation and communication.

• Modelling positive relationships.

• Helping children develop friendships.

• Teaching values, norms and expectations.