Everyday Moments That Shape Your Child’s Future
By Sumreen Ahmed, Child Counsellor:
As a registered counsellor, who specialises in supporting children and young people, I have seen firsthand how the earliest moments of a child’s life can shape their future.
In our community, children are cherished as the heart of the home. Parents make countless decisions every day to support their child’s well-being, from providing nourishing meals to ensuring they receive essential healthcare. But while physical health is crucial, nurturing a child’s developing mind is just as important.
90% of a child’s brain growth happens by the age of five, shaping their ability to think, communicate, and connect with the world around them. It’s in these early years that strong foundations are laid, and as parents, every small interaction—from a gentle smile or cuddle to a bedtime story—can have a lasting impact.
You don’t need to buy lots of toys or have big days out to help your child develop. The best learning happens naturally through daily interactions. Talking, playing, and even involving your child in everyday tasks like cooking or shopping help them build essential life skills and get the right start at school.
Our traditions and customs provide such a rich opportunity for early learning:
- Storytelling: Telling folk stories from back home or singing lullabies in our mother tongue can strengthen language skills and cultural pride.
- Cooking Together: Letting children help make chapatis or measure lentils introduces them to numbers, textures, and hand-eye coordination.
- Family Gatherings: Sitting with elders, listening to family history, and participating in conversations encourage language development and a sense of belonging.
- Festivals and Celebrations: Preparing for Eid or Diwali by decorating the home or making sweets helps with fine motor skills and creativity.
Top Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Development
- Take It Slow: Encourage your child to explore at their own pace.
- Chat Back and Forth: Talk to your baby and respond to their babbling—it builds confidence in communication.
- Make Every Moment a Learning Moment: Grocery shopping? Count fruit together. Doing laundry? Name colours of clothes.
- Encourage Curiosity: Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think will happen next?”
- Be Creative Together: Play with toys, tell stories, and explore imagination through pretend play.
Start for Life: A Valuable and Practical Guide for Parents
The Start for Life website offers easy-to-follow advice tailored to busy parents. Whether you’re looking for speech development ideas, interactive play tips, or guidance on building confidence, it’s a great resource to explore.
The early years are about more than just learning milestones—they’re about creating meaningful connections. Through play, conversation, and cultural traditions, every interaction leaves a lasting impact. Visit https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/ for inspiration and guidance on making the most of these vital years.
A Parent’s Perspective: Yasmin: Yasmin Bibi, Mother of Three says: “The Start for Life website has been really useful for me. It’s full of easy, practical ideas that fit into my busy day, whether I’m on the school run or sorting out dinner. It’s like having a friendly guide reminding me of the things that we are already doing can make a huge difference for our children.”