A child who enjoys learning should be encouraged and the way to do it is through play and every day activities.

This isn't the time for any 'formal' teaching, leave that until 'big school' begins!

Toddlers learn through play - if they can't learn something through play, they aren't ready to learn it.

All play and no work
Physically, play develops their muscles and dexterity. Mentally, it builds up concentration, encourages imagination and creativity. Emotionally, it shows children empathy and caring. Socially, it teaches verbal skills and sharing and boosts their self-esteem.

Questions are as important as answers
Help your child enjoy learning. Getting on at school is a matter of having the right attitude. Children are full of curiousity, always asking questions. Always answer their questions however repetitive. Keep your answers short and to the point and wait for 'follow up questions'.

Tempting as it may be, never say 'Because!' when they ask 'Why?' If they're old enough to ask the question, they're old enough to get an answer but keep the answer appropriate to their age.

Ask them questions and to solve simple problems. Read plenty of books and stories. Teach them to interact with the book by talking about it while you're reading. Repetition is part of learning, so read stories again and again if they want you to.

Let them take the lead
Expect a lot of mess. Never criticise and give lots of praise. Real reading skills will come if you encourage recognising patterns and letters. Look at packets in the shops.

Play I-Spy to associate letters and sounds. Count everyday things like cars in the street. Put socks in pairs. Helping around the house encourages teamwork and hand-eye coordination. Cooking teaches weights, measures, creativity and sequencing. Let's Pretend boosts the imagination and teaches everyday skills like shopping. Paint, colour, stick and glue - invest in a good 'make and do' book to give you inspiration.

Hothouses are for plants, not children
Don't expect them to do things they are not capable of. 'Flashcards' and learning-by-rote may make your child look clever but real reading requires skills which the average child acquires around 6 years, - or later if they're bilingual.

Recognition of basic numbers, letters and shapes will help when they get to school but isn't crucial. Remember, letters are taught in the lower case. It's more important that your child can sit still, listen and following simple instructions.

Being top of the class when they start school can lead to unrealistic expectations that are dashed once the other children catch up. Don't waste money on expensive toys and gadgets. Avoid comparing your child with others. All children develop at different speeds.

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