Learning starts long before children are ready for school

Children start learning the minute they are born, and what they learn in the first few years depends on the experiences they have.

Although parents, grandparents and other caretakers understand how important the early years are, they may not know exactly what to do to encourage learning or feel they don't have time to do what it takes to prepare their child for school.

But there are fun, easy learning games to play with young children during everyday activities, such as running errands or doing laundry, that can boost learning.

The Born Learning public engagement campaign was created by United Way, Civitas, the Families and Work Institute, and the Ad Council to help parents, grandparents and caregivers create fun learning moments for young children. Here are a few tips on providing early learning opportunities by playing with a baby:

+Jump right in. Playtime with a caregiver is invaluable to a child, whether talking baby talk or bouncing a toddler on a knee.

+Forget the rules. Add to a child's play experiences by creating imaginative games and finding new ways to use toys. Use blocks as flying cars and pretend to be a zoo animal.

+Take a break. Although children often learn the most when they interact with others, solitary play gives a child time to understand everything he has been doing.

+Watch out for overstimulation. Stop playing when the baby loses interest.

He'll tell you when he's had enough by disengaging, turning his head or starting to cry.

This story is provided by North America Precis Syndicate Inc.