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Children love rhymes and songs and music is great for their development and language learning. Why not try some of these traditional nursery rhymes and original songs with your baby or toddler?

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Nursery rhymes for babies - BBC Tiny Happy People

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A collection of traditional nursery rhymes and songs to sing with your baby or toddler. Find all the classic baby nursery rhymes but also discover the benefits of classic nursery rhymes and why you should sing them with your young children.

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Babies love the sound of your voice, and will love to hear you sing. They have a natural sense of rhythm and will want to join in.

Repeating the same song allows your baby to recognise, remember, and anticipate what will happen next and respond in their own way.

An action, done at the same time as a word, shows your baby what that word means, and helps their understanding.

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It doesn’t matter if you don’t like your voice; your baby loves it.

Sing lullabies which are simple, soothing and repetitive – for example Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

Say or sing rhymes with actions where you tickle and touch your baby – for example Round and Round the Garden.

Additional information links
Reading from birth
Hungry little minds

Idea Stores – Family fun activities

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Your baby will enjoy sharing books with you, this is great way to develop a life-long love of books. Sharing books is a great way to spend uninterrupted time together, talking about the pictures will help your baby’s language to develop.

When your baby hears you using different voices and expressions it helps their social and emotional development.

Each time you share a favourite book, your baby will get something new from it.

It boosts your bond.

as your baby grows you can encourage them to look, point, touch, and talk about it.

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The benefits of outdoor play for children | Baby & toddler articles & support | NCT

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Playing outside is fun, exciting and important for children’s learning and development. Here we look at how else outdoor play is great for your little one.

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You don’t have to read  the words,  you can look at the pictures and make  up a story. Use actions to make it come alive.

Notice what catches their eye and talk about it. Model what things are called, such as 'tree'.

Use your home language if that feels more comfortable.

Let your baby try to open and  turn the pages.

Books aren't just for bedtime! Take them out with you. You can even have waterproof books in the bath.

Additional information links
Reading from birth

Hungry little minds
Idea Stores – Family fun activities

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Getting outdoors to play is a brilliant sensory experience for babies and toddlers. There is so much for them to see, hear, smell and touch. The changing nature of the outdoors makes it a stimulating place to explore. This is important as babies learn and gain experience through all of their senses.

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Here are some ways to tune in with your baby

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The Centre for Parent and Child Support NHS

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You don't need to be an expert to help your child develop good communication skills. All you need is a listening ear and the willingness to chat to your child whenever you can.

Here are some top tips and benefits of talking with your baby and young child.

Top tips for talking with your child

1. Talk to your child when you're playing together.

2. Get into their zone and talk about what they are looking at or playing with - they will learn language faster that way.

3. Have fun with nursery rhymes and songs, especially those with actions.

4. Encourage your child to listen to different sounds, such as cars and animals. This will help your child's listening skills.

5. Gain your child's attention when you want to talk.

6. Increase vocabulary by giving choices, e.g. "Do you want juice or milk?"

7. Talk about things as they happen, e.g. when you're both unpacking the shopping.

8. Listen carefully and give your child time to finish talking. Take turns to speak.

9. Always respond in some way when your child says something.

10. Help your child to use more words by adding to what they've said, e.g. if they said "ball" you might say, "Yes, it is a big, red ball."

11. If your child says something incorrectly, say it back the right way, e.g. "Goggy bited it." "Yes, the dog bit it, didn't he?"

12. Try and have special time with your child each day to play with toys and picture books.

13. Limit TV time. Try to watch TV together so you can talk about what happens.

Talking to your baby matters
Here are some of the benefits:

1. It will help your child learn to talk, as it is from listening to your voice that babies learn to use language.

2. It will stimulate your baby's brain, helping to strengthen the connections that make learning possible.

3. It will help your child become a good reader and writer, because language skills form the foundation for literacy.

4. It will help your child develop social skills and good relationships.

5. It will show that you love and respect your child, enhancing self-esteem.

6. It will help the two of you form a close bond - communication is the basis of your relationship with each other.

Content was originally developed for Talk To Your Baby, drawing on research from the leaflet, Help Your Child Talk by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

For more information

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Tips for talking to your baby and young child | National Literacy Trust

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You don't need to be an expert to help your child develop good communication skills. All you need is a listening ear and the willingness to chat to your child whenever you can. Here are some top tips and benefits of talking with your baby and young child.

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Lay your baby on a blanket under a tree and let them watch the leaves gently swaying.

Walk through the park talking to your baby about what you can see.

Find natural materials such as pinecones, leaves and grass for your baby to touch.

Additional information
NHS – Guidelines for physical activity

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Tooth brushing can begin as soon as your baby's first tooth appears. However, some babies are born with a tooth. Use a clean, damp washcloth, a gauze pad, or a finger brush to gently wipe clean the first teeth and the front of the tongue, after meals and at bedtime.

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You can start brushing your baby's teeth as soon as they start to come through. Use a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Don't worry if you don't manage to brush much at first. The important thing is to get your baby used to brushing their teeth as part of their daily routine. You can help by setting a good example and letting them see you brushing your own teeth.

Tooth brushing tips for babies

Use a tiny smear of toothpaste for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old, and a pea-sized amount for children aged 3 to 6 years.

Gradually start brushing your child's teeth more thoroughly, covering all the surfaces of the teeth. Do it at least twice a day: just before bed and at another time that fits in with your routine.

Not all children like having their teeth brushed, so you may have to keep trying. Make it into a game, or brush your own teeth at the same time and then help your child finish their own.

The easiest way to brush a baby's teeth is to sit them on your knee, with their head resting against your chest. With an older child, stand behind them and tilt their head backwards.

Brush the teeth in small circles, covering all the surfaces, and encourage your child to spit the toothpaste out afterwards. There's no need to rinse with water, as this will wash away the fluoride.

Supervise brushing to make sure your child gets the right amount of toothpaste and they're not eating or licking toothpaste from the tube.

Carry on helping your child brush their teeth until you're sure they can do it well enough themselves. This will normally be until they're at least 7.

Taking your baby to the dentist

NHS dental treatment for children is free. Take your child with you when you go for your own dental appointments so they get used to the idea.

To find a dentist, you can use our services search, ask at your local clinic, or contact NHS England on 0300 311 22 3 or email england.contactus@nhs.net.

Sugar and tooth decay

Sugar causes tooth decay. It's not just about the amount of sugar in sweet food and drinks, but how long and how often the teeth are in contact with sugar.

Lollipops and sweet drinks in a formula bottle are particularly damaging, because they bathe the teeth in sugar for long periods of time. The acid in drinks like fruit juice and squash can harm teeth as well.

The sugars found naturally in whole fruit and milk are less likely to cause tooth decay, so you don't need to cut down on these types of sugars.

How to cut down sugar in your child's diet

These tips will help you reduce the amount of sugar in your child's diet and prevent tooth decay:

Avoid sugar-sweetened drinks - the best drinks for young children are their usual milk and water.

It's OK to use bottles for expressed breast milk, formula milk, or cooled boiled water. But using them for juices or sugary drinks can increase tooth decay.

From 6 months old, you can offer babies drinks in a non-valved free-flowing cup.

When your baby starts eating solid foods, encourage them to eat savoury food and drinks with no sugar. Check if there's sugar in pre-prepared baby foods (including the savoury ones), rusks and baby drinks. Read more about food labels.

If you choose to give your child sweet foods or fruit juice, only give them at mealtimes. Remember to dilute 1 part juice to 10 parts water. Your child should have no more than 1 drink of fruit juice (150ml) in any 1 day as part of their 5 A Day.

Don't give your child biscuits or sweets - ask family and friends to do the same. Offer things like stickers, hair slides, crayons, colouring books and bubbles instead. They may be more expensive than sweets, but they last longer.

At bedtime or during the night, only give your child breast milk, formula or cooled boiled water.

If your child needs medicine, ask your pharmacist or GP if there's a sugar-free option.

Check your whole family's sugar intake - see how to cut down on sugar in your diet.

Sucrose, glucose, dextrose, maltose, fructose and hydrolysed starch are all sugars. Invert sugar or syrup, honey, raw sugar, brown sugar, cane sugar, muscovado sugar and concentrated fruit juices are also sugars.

Should I give my baby a dummy?

It's fine to give your baby a dummy but avoid using them after 12 months of age. Using dummies after this can encourage an open bite, which is when teeth move to make space for the dummy. They may also affect your child's speech development.

Discourage your child from talking or making sounds with a dummy or their thumb in their mouth, and don't dip dummies in anything sweet, such as sugar or jam.

Read more about thumb-sucking and dummies.

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You can start brushing your baby's teeth as soon as they start to come through. Use a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Don't worry if you don't manage to brush much at first. The important thing is to get your baby used to brushing their teeth as part of their daily routine.

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When you look into your baby's eyes, and copy their expressions you let your baby know that you are interested in them. You can even have conversations with them! This helps babies to develop their brains.

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Talking to your baby from an early age builds language and communication skills, stimulates your baby’s brain and builds relationships.

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Tummy time can be done from birth onwards through skin to skin contact on your chest. Once your baby can hold their head up you can try placing them on the floor on their tummy.

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Tummy time is really beneficial for your baby but you may be wondering what you can do during tummy time that helps.
NHS speech and language therapist, Francesca Ellis gave us some ideas of things to try during tummy time:

Newborn tummy time

While your baby is lying on your chest, try some soothing, quiet singing.

Even better, make it interactive by using your touch.

Rhymes/songs you could try include:

Round and Round the Garden , with your fingers 'walking' on the baby's back

Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes , touching baby's body parts in time to the song

Incy, Wincy Spider , walking your fingers up and down baby's spine

First times on floor

When they first spend time down on the floor, your baby might struggle. However, voices and faces are massively motivating for babies, so get down to their level.

Lie in front of them and smile. You'll often find that they work harder to look at you, helping to strengthen those neck muscles.

If your baby is able to hold up their head in a more controlled way, try playing peek a boo .

Try introducing different tones of voice, facial expressions and body language too.

Reaching and crawling

Get baby comfy on the floor and place a few familiar items just out of reach, for example, their teddy, a spoon and a noisy toy.

When baby looks towards each item, pick it up and say its name, e.g. 'a spoon, it's your spoon'. Put lots of emphasis on the key word, 'spoon'. Then give that item to the baby to explore.

As baby starts to reach out and crawl, you can comment on their behaviour, 'oh you want you teddy? You've got teddy! Well done!'.

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What is tummy time and how does it help baby development?

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The NHS recommends tummy time as a way to build muscles that your baby will need for sitting and crawling. We go through the benefits of tummy time and what tummy time is.

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Your baby will learn that it is important to brush their teeth and gums so that their teeth and gums stay strong and healthy. Your baby will also be learning that brushing your teeth every day is an important part of your daily routine.

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3 months to pre-crawlers

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Baby Massage Techniques With Sharon Marshall and Lou Toosey | This Morning

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Sit face to face, at your baby's level so you can make eye contact.

Cut down background noises, for example television.

Give your baby some ‘special time’ by playing with what they are interested in.

Use simple single words, and repeat them often.

Copy your baby's facial expressions, words or sounds.

Name objects that you can see.

Sing song nursery rhymes, read stories together.

Additional information ideas
BBC – Helpful advice from a Speech and Language Therapist

BBC – Benefits of talking from birth

NHS – How can I help my baby learn and develop?

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Giving babies time on their tummy helps to develop their neck, arm, legs and core muscles.

This helps babies with their rolling, crawling and other physical development later on.

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Make brushing your teeth a positive experience, brush your teeth together so that your baby sees you doing it too.

Register your baby to a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears. Visit the dentist every 6 months

Additional information ideas
Tower Hamlets – Oral health

Nursery rhyme - This is the way we brush our teeth!

What is national smile month?

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Massage can soothe your baby and help them to sleep.

Baby massage improves circulation,  reduces colic and aids digestion.

Baby massage can support bonding between you and your baby.

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Listen to everyday sounds and encourage baby to hear

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Listen to everyday sounds and encourage baby to hear

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All ages

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A fun activity for babies aged 9-12 months to help with their development and language learning. Listening for different sounds when you're out and about helps your baby to begin to connect words and sounds.

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Stay with your baby during tummy time.
Tummy time is best done when your baby is awake and alert and not straight after a feed.
If your baby cries, stop and try another time.

Additional information links
Nursery World – Tummy time

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The NHS recommends waiting to wean until around six months.

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To start with, your baby only needs a small amount of solid food, once a day, at a time that suits you both.

You can start weaning with single vegetables and fruits - try blended, mashed, or soft cooked sticks of parsnip, broccoli, potato, yam, sweet potato, carrot, apple or pear. You could also try baby rice mixed with your baby's usual milk. Make sure any cooked food has cooled right down before offering it to your baby.

It's important to introduce foods that can trigger allergic reactions one at a time, in very small amounts, so that you can spot any reaction. These foods can be introduced from around 6 months as part of your baby's diet, just like any other foods:

cows' milk (in cooking or mixed with food)

eggs (eggs without a red lion stamp should not be eaten raw or lightly cooked)

foods that contain gluten, including wheat, barley and rye

nuts and peanuts (serve them crushed or ground)

seeds (serve them crushed or ground)

soya

shellfish (don't serve raw or lightly cooked)

fish

Once introduced and if tolerated, keep offering those foods as part of your baby's usual diet (to minimise the risk of allergy). Read more about food allergies and what signs to look out for.

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Food groups

Include vegetables that aren't so sweet, such as broccoli, cauliflower and spinach - this will help your baby get used to a range of flavours (rather than just the sweeter ones like carrots and sweet potato). This can help prevent them being fussy eaters as they grow up.

Remember, babies don't need salt or sugar added to their food (or cooking water). Babies shouldn't eat salty foods as it isn't good for their kidneys and sugar can cause tooth decay.

Gradually increase the amount and variety of the following food groups - have a look at our baby weaning recipes and YouTube channel for inspiration!

Cook to soften them, then mash or blend veggies to a suitable texture for your baby - or give them as finger foods. Offer a variety including ones with bitter flavours:

broccoli

parsnips

peppers

peas

cauliflower

swede

spinach

green beans

courgette

asparagus

kale

carrots

avocado

butternut squash

cabbage

Mash or blend soft ripe fruits to a suitable texture for your baby, or give them as finger foods. Harder fruits will need to be cooked to soften them. Wash and remove any pips, stones and hard skin. Fruit includes:

bananas

blueberries

kiwi

oranges

apples

raspberries

mango

nectarines

pears

strawberries

pineapple

papaya

melon

peach

plums

These can be cooked, where necessary, and mashed or blended to a suitable texture for your baby or offered as finger foods. Cereals can be mixed with breast milk or first infant formula - or with pasteurised whole (full-fat) cows' milk (or goats' or sheep's milk) if your baby is over 6 months old. Starchy foods include:

potato

sweet potato

rice

baby rice

pasta

porridge

oats

oatmeal

cornmeal

maize

millet

quinoa

toast

bread

chapatti

pitta bread

This food group includes meat, fish, eggs, beans and pulses and is suitable from around 6 months.

As well as giving your baby protein, these foods contain other useful nutrients, such as iron and zinc, which are important for babies.

Eggs: Make sure you buy eggs stamped with the British Lion stamp mark. There have been improved food safety controls in recent years. So infants, children and pregnant women can now safely eat raw or lightly cooked hen eggs (as long as they have the British Lion stamp), or foods containing them.

If you have a severely weakened immune system or are on a medically supervised diet prescribed by health professionals, you should cook all eggs thoroughly. Read about the healthy way to eat eggs.

Protein foods include:

chicken

turkey

beef

lamb

pork

fish (no bones)

egg

lentils

beans

tofu

pulses, such as chickpeas

Pasteurised dairy foods such as pasteurised full-fat yoghurt and cheese are suitable foods for your baby from around 6 months.

Full-fat, unsweetened or plain yoghurts are a good choice because they don't contain added sugars. Whole pasteurised (full-fat) cows' milk, or goats' or sheep's milk, can be used in cooking or mixed with food from around 6 months old, but not as a drink until your baby is 12 months.

Smooth or lumpy?

To help your baby get used to different textures and tastes quickly, try moving on to mashed and finger foods (from purées or blended) as soon as they're ready. This helps them learn how to chew, move solid food around their mouth and swallow solid foods. Give your baby a spoon and let them try feeding themselves - you might need to stick a mat under the highchair though!

Babies take different amounts of time to get used to lumps, but it's an important skill they need to learn. Just keep offering them lumpy textures from around 6 to 7 months, and stay with them so you can be sure they are swallowing it safely.

Finger foods help get them used to different textures, they love picking bits of food up and feeding themselves - this is also good for developing their hand-eye co-ordination.

Did you know?

When your baby's had enough, they'll let you know by firmly closing their mouth or turning their head away.

What is baby-led weaning?

Baby-led weaning means offering your baby only finger foods and letting them feed themselves from the start (rather than spoon feeding them puréed or mashed foods). You can offer a range of small, finger-sized pieces of food.

Some parents prefer baby-led weaning to spoon feeding, while others combine a bit of both. There's no right or wrong way - the most important thing is that your baby eats a wide variety of food and gets all the nutrients they need.

Should I still give my baby breast milk or first infant formula?

Yes. To begin with they will still be getting most of their energy and nutrients from breast milk or first infant formula. Breast milk or first infant formula should be their main drink during the first year, you can continue breastfeeding for as long as you both want. Remember your baby's tummy is tiny and fills up quickly - so offer milk feeds after solids.

Drinks?

During meal times, offer your baby sips of water from an open or free-flow cup. Using an open cup, or a free-flow cup without a valve, will help your baby learn to sip and is better for your baby's teeth.

If your baby is younger than 6 months, it's important to sterilise the water by boiling it first and then letting it cool right down.

Sweet drinks like squash, fizzy drinks, milkshakes and fruit juice can have lots of sugar, so avoid these to help prevent tooth decay - even baby and toddler drinks can be sugary.

Cows' milk is not a suitable drink until your baby is 12 months old, but it can be used in cooking or mixed with food from 6 months of age.

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Find out which food groups you should include in your baby's diet

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To start with, your baby only needs a small amount of solid food, once a day, at a time that suits you both. You can start weaning with single vegetables and fruits - try blended, mashed, or soft cooked sticks of parsnip, broccoli, potato, yam, sweet potato, carrot, apple or pear.

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Until baby starts getting down and dirty on the ground, a daily bath isn't needed. In fact, your newborn baby will only really need a bath two or three times a week - at first a sponge bath, until his umbilical cord stump heals (about one to four weeks after birth), then a baby tub bath, and eventually a tub bath, when baby can sit up on his own and outgrows the infant tub). There's nothing cuter than seeing a baby splashing in the bath, soapy suds dotting his chubby folds and dimples.

Benefits of bathtime for babies

Bathing baby has benefits beyond a basic cleanup and a few (okay, dozens of) adorable photo ops. Bathtime:

Boosts the parent-baby bond. There's a reason why bathtime quickly becomes a highlight of the day, for both of you - it's time spent together, just the two of you. Taking care of your baby lets him know you care about him. Gaze into his eyes, kiss that yummy baby belly, count those tiny toes, coo sweet nothings, sing silly songs. Feeling your gentle touch and hearing your voice (no matter what you say or sing) will let your little one know how much he's loved.

Is a learning experience. Believe it or not, there's plenty to learn in the tub. Tickle your little one's senses by trickling water gently onto his tummy - he'll probably giggle with pleasure. Pour a little water near him (his wide-eyed gaze will let you know he's captivated), or teach him a lesson in cause-and-effect by showing him how to kick the water and create a splash. Just always watch to be sure he's happy and enjoying what you're doing. Don't forget a play-by-play as you wash him - name his little body parts as you suds them. He'll be learning a tub-full of words before you know it!

Soothes fussy babies. You probably already know this from your own bathtime experience, but nothing's more calming and comforting than a soak in a tub after a long day. Up the relaxation even more by trying your hand at infant massage afterwards. While most little ones love it, if your baby balks (he fusses or turns his head), don't sweat it - just cuddle instead. Pretty soon, you'll figure out what works best.

Induces sleep. There's even more reason to love bathing your little one - especially if you add it to your baby's bedtime routine. The warm water, the warm room and the warm feeling of being safe, secure and loved work magic and will put your baby in the mood to snooze.

If your baby's umbilical cord stump is still intact or if a circumcised newborn's penis hasn't healed, avoid tub baths altogether and just use your hands or a baby washcloth for cleanups. When your baby is ready to give it a go, find a flat surface - bathroom or kitchen counter, bed, even the floor, and keep washing up gentle and brief until he gets used to it.

Baby bath tips
Here are a few basic tips when it comes to bathing your baby.
Establish a routine. Whether you're bathing baby every night or alternating between tub time and sponge baths or quick washcloth cleanups, the routine will help set your baby's body clock ("Mommy or Daddy is giving me a bath - that means it's almost time for bed"). Reinforce the sleepy-time message by dimming the lights and keeping the noise and activity down after the bath is over.

You should, however, postpone the bath if your baby is hungry, grumpy or has an upset tummy - that wouldn't be good for anyone involved. And keep in mind that while bedtime baths are relaxing, it's fine if another time of day works better for you and your baby.

Gather your supplies. Have everything you'll need at your fingertips before you start (otherwise, you'll have to gather up your naked newborn mid-bath to fetch whatever you've forgotten). The essentials include baby soap and shampoo (or a product that does double duty), one or two cotton washcloths, a blanket, a plush towel or two, a plastic basin filled with warm water - and your partner or a friend or relative ready with the camera, especially if it's baby's very first bath. You may also want a clean diaper, clean clothes and diaper ointment or cream for after the bath.

Keep it toasty. Babies lose body heat very quickly - especially when they're naked - so make sure the bathing room is warm enough, between 75 and 80 degrees, before you get started (you can turn up the thermostat or steam up the room by letting the shower run on hot for a few minutes). Whether you're using an infant tub or a sink, fill it first with just enough water to cover the bottom of his body. Never put a baby in while the water is still running. The water temperature should be comfortably warm, so test it with your elbow or the inside of your wrist, since those areas are more sensitive than your fingertips.

Get a grip. Gently slide your baby into the tub, feet first, holding him securely with one of your arms under his head (use your hand to grasp his underarm farthest away from you) and the other supporting his bottom. He may be slippery as a fish, but you'll soon get the hang of how to hang on to him. Once he's in, avoid letting him sit for too long in water - it can irritate his skin, plus he might get chilly.

Soap up sparingly. Use a mild soap on his hands and diaper area when you're bathing baby. You can just use water on the rest of his body most days, unless he's really dirty.

Focus on his face first. Dip a corner of a washcloth or cotton ball in the warm water, and gently wipe one eye from the inner corner outward. Using a different corner of the cloth or a clean cotton ball, clean the other eye. Wet the washcloth entirely and wash your little one's face, especially around his mouth and under his chin where milk and drool can pool, and inside and behind his ears. (Never use a cotton swab to clean inside your baby's ears.) It's okay to use a little soap on your baby's face if necessary.

Wash baby's body. Dip the washcloth in warm water and wash your little one's neck and torso. Maneuver carefully around the umbilical cord if there's still a stump; it's okay to gently wipe away any crustiness around it. Next, clean under his arms and between his fingers. Be sure to get into those little creases and skin folds.

Go easy on the private parts. Use a soft, clean cloth, gentle soap, and lukewarm water to clean your baby's genitals. Have a girl? Wash the area from front to back, and don't forget to gently wipe between skin folds. If you have a baby boy who's been circumcised, wipe his penis clean; if your baby boy is uncircumcised, no need to pull back his foreskin. Next up: that tiny little bottom. Be sure to use a little soap for this part.
Try these tips when baby has graduated to a baby bathtub:
Shampoo his hair with a tear-free baby shampoo. If, of course, he has any; if he doesn't, wipe his head with a washcloth. Using water and a tiny bit of shampoo, lather your baby's scalp. Massage it with the pads of your fingers, including the area over the fontanelles (soft spots) on the top of the head. Don't worry - you won't poke through - just be gentle and it'll be fine. If your baby develops cradle cap, talk to your pediatrician, who may recommend rubbing a little mineral oil on his scalp and then gently wiping it off with a soft washcloth.

Rinse and dry. Use clean, warm water for that final rinse cycle, holding your little one football-style, with the back of his head cradled in one hand, his body draped along your arm, and his head over the basin. Fill the cup with water and gently pour it over your baby's head. Then pat (don't rub) your baby's skin with a soft dry towel. Be sure to thoroughly dry his bottom and any other areas where there are folds of skin. Chubby babies can have a lot of those!

Don't force it. If your baby absolutely hates being bathed in the tub, go back to sponge baths for a few days, then try again. He'll get the hang of it eventually.

Stay safe. Never leave a baby alone in or near the tub, and always keep at least one hand on his body at all times.
Follow these steps after bathtime is over:
Go easy on the baby lotion and avoid powder. That beautiful and ultra-sensitive skin doesn't need much, if any, in the way of lotions, oils or creams, though a little baby-safe lotion is okay. And avoid baby powders, which can irritate an infant's breathing passages. However if your practitioner has a good reason to recommend one (i.e. your baby has dry or eczema-prone skin), massage a hypoallergenic lotion into his skin, after first warming it between your palms.

Diaper and dress. Slip on a fresh diaper and dress your new baby in some clean clothes. If he needs a little soothing after his sponge bath, swaddle him in a blanket, then get settled in for a snuggle with your clean, sweet-smelling baby.

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Until baby starts getting down and dirty on the ground, a daily bath isn't needed. In fact, your newborn baby will only really need a bath two or three times a week - at first a sponge bath, until his umbilical cord stump heals (about one to four weeks after birth), then a baby tub bath, and eventually a tub bath, when baby can sit up on his own and outgrows the infant tub).

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Listening to different sounds helps your baby make sense of the world around them. Hearing different sounds will be a foundation for talking.

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Three signs your baby is ready to start weaning

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Three signs your baby is ready to start weaning

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Your baby can stay sitting and hold their head steady.

Your baby can co-ordinate their eyes, hand and mouth and look at food, grab it and put it in their mouth all by themselves.

Your baby can swallow food. Babies who are not ready will push their food back out.

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Massage your baby when both you and the baby are relaxed. Ideally don’t do this after a feed.

Avoid giving your baby a massage if your baby is unwell or just had an  injection.

Contact your local Children's Centre to find out when the next baby massage course will be available.

Additional information

Infant massage

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Take a trip to the park, and talk about what you can see and hear.

Give your baby some pots, pans and spoons. Notice what your baby chooses to do, imitate and comment on what they are doing.

Additional information links
BBC – A trip to the park

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Family mealtimes are a great opportunity to spend time together.  Your baby learns from everything around them. From six months your baby will enjoy exploring new tastes and textures. It also helps them to discover the tastes they like and dislike.

Encouraging your baby to feed themselves helps to develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Over time, learning to chew will help to develop facial muscles which will help your baby learn to talk.

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Always stay with your baby when they are eating to make sure they don’t choke.

Waiting until your baby is ready to wean saves you a lot of time. They will quickly learn how to feed themselves. This helps to develop independence and your baby will learn to recognise when they feel full.

Keep trying new food, some babies need to taste something 10 to 15 times before they may like it.

Offer fingers foods, this will help your baby regulate how quickly they eat and helps to develop chewing.

Additional information links

BBC – Weaning

BBC – What can baby eat?

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Having a relaxing bath time routine can help you bond with your baby and soothes your baby before bedtime.

Let your baby explore & splash. Talk about what’s happening and how it feels.
It's a great opportunity to introduce new words and songs, such as pouring water on their feet and saying, ‘Wash, wash, wash your toes.’

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A fun activity for babies aged 3-6 months to help with their development and language learning. Create a fun game to play at home with just a pillowcase and a selection of everyday items.

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Always stay with your baby.

Introduce turn taking during mealtimes.

Try to allow plenty of time so that it's an enjoyable experience.

Don’t stress if they create mess.

Try and talk about tastes and textures of different foods.

Additional information links

BBC – Baby meal time

BBC – Baby eats

BBC – Dinner chat

BBC – Yum Yum breakfast

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Make your home safe for your baby.

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Each year 40,000 under-5s are admitted to hospital following accidents, and lots of these accidents are preventable.
Here's how to protect your baby or toddler from some of the commonest accidents that affect young children.

Choking

Food is the most common thing for babies and toddlers to choke on. Young children may also put small objects in their mouths that could cause choking.

If you give your baby a bottle, always hold the bottle and your baby while they're feeding.

Keep small objects, such as buttons, coins and small toy parts, out of your baby's reach.

Once your baby has started on solid food, always cut it up into small pieces. Babies can choke on something as small as a grape (these should be cut lengthways). Raw jelly cubes can be a choking hazard. If you're making jelly, make sure you always follow the manufacturers' instructions.

Do not give young children hard foods, such as boiled sweets or whole nuts.

Keep small, silver button batteries well away from small children. As well as being a choking hazard, they can cause severe internal burns if swallowed.

Stay with your child when they're eating. Encourage them to sit still while they eat, as running around while eating could make them choke.

Keep toys designed for older children away from babies and toddlers, as they may have small parts.

See how to help a choking baby or child.

Suffocation

Do not use pillows or duvets with babies under the age of 1, as they can suffocate if their face gets smothered. They won't be able to push the duvet away. Babies should always sleep on their back with their feet at the foot of their cot. Tuck the blanket in across their chest and under their arms and keep the cot free from bumpers, pillows and soft toys

If you carry your baby in a sling, follow the TICKS advice to reduce the risk of suffocation. Keep your baby T ight, I n view, C lose enough to kiss, K eep their chin off their chest, with a S upported back.

Keep plastic bags, including nappy bags, out of reach and sight of young children. Keep them away from babies' cots, so that they cannot reach them and put them over their nose and mouth.

Credit:

Bill Cheyrou / Alamy Stock Photo

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Strangulation

Do not tie a dummy to your baby's clothes, as the tie or ribbon could strangle them.

Always keep curtain or blind cords tied up out of reach - with a cleat hook for example - so that they're well out of your baby or toddler's reach. Unsecured blind and curtain ropes can quickly wrap themselves round a baby or toddler's neck. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has a video on blind safety you can view online.

Do not leave any type of rope or cord lying around, including dressing gown cords and drawstring bags.

If the gaps between banisters or balcony railings are more than 6.5cm (2.5 inches) wide, cover them with boards or safety netting. Small babies may be able to squeeze their bodies through, but not their heads.

Keep toys and garden play equipment well away from washing lines, so that children cannot stand on them and reach the line.

Avoid using cot bumpers in your baby's cot - they are a hazard for choking, suffocation and strangulation. See more about safe sleep for babies.

Falls in babies

Babies soon learn to wriggle and kick. It's not long before they can roll over, which means that they can roll off beds and changing tables.

Here are some things you can do to stop your baby being injured:

Change your baby's nappy on a changing mat on the floor.

Do not leave your baby unattended on a bed, sofa or changing table, even for a second, as they could roll off.

Always keep bouncing cradles or baby car seats on the floor, rather than on a table or kitchen worktop, as your baby's wriggling could tip it over the edge.

Hold on to the handrail when carrying your baby up and down stairs, in case you trip. Make sure the stairs are free of toys and other trip hazards.

If you get your baby a walker, make sure it complies with British Standard BS EN 1273:2005. Older walkers may tip over more easily and harm your baby.

Watch where you're putting your feet while carrying your baby. It's easy to trip over something like a toy.

Use a 5-point harness to secure your baby in a highchair or pram every time you put them in.

When your baby starts crawling

Once they learn to crawl, babies may try to climb onto things, such as sofas, which increases the risk of falling.

Here are some injury prevention tips for parents of crawling babies:

Fit safety gates to stop your baby getting onto stairs. Close the gates properly after you go through them.

If the gaps between banisters or balcony railings are more than 6.5cm (2.5 inches) wide, cover them with boards or safety netting.

Keep low furniture away from windows. Have windows fitted with locks or safety catches that restrict the opening to less than 6.5cm (2.5 inches), to stop babies climbing out. Make sure adults know where the keys are kept in case of a fire.

Remove cot toys and cot bumpers, as a baby can climb on them and may fall out of the cot.

Falls in toddlers

When babies start to walk, they're unsteady on their feet, but can move very quickly. They tend to trip and fall.

Here are some injury prevention tips for parents of toddlers:

Carry on using safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs until your infant is at least 2 years old.

Start to teach your child how to climb stairs, but never let them go up and down on their own (even 4 year olds may need some help).

Do not let children under 6 sleep in the top bunk of a bunk bed, as they can easily fall out.

Keep low furniture away from windows and ensure that windows are fitted with locks or safety catches. Make sure adults know where the keys are kept in case of fire.

Carry on using a 5-point harness when your child is in their highchair or pushchair.

Keep scissors, knives and razors out of children's reach.

Special devices can stop doors from closing properly, preventing your child's fingers getting trapped. At night, remember to close doors to stop any potential fires from spreading.

If furniture has sharp corners, use corner protectors to prevent your child from hurting their head.

Poisoning

Medicines are the cause of over 70% of hospital admissions for poisoning in under-5s. Common painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen are the main culprits. Keep all medicines locked away or high up out of reach and sight.

Keep cleaning products high up out of reach, including those for the toilet. If this isn't possible, fit safety catches to low cupboard doors. Choose cleaning products that contain a bittering agent. This makes them taste nasty, so children are less likely to swallow them.

Liquid laundry capsules can cause poisoning. Make sure the capsules are stored out of reach and sight. They are often packaged in child-friendly colours.

Make sure bottle tops and lids are always firmly closed when not in use. Remember that child-resistant packaging is not child-proof - it just slows children down.

Keep e-cigarettes and their refills out of sight and reach of babies and toddlers. Nicotine is poisonous and can be very dangerous for young children.

Check your garden for poisonous plants. Teach your children not to eat anything they pick outdoors until they've checked with an adult. For more information, see Plant dangers in the garden and countryside.

Burns and scalds

A baby's skin burns more easily than an adult's. This means you need to take extra care to avoid burns and scalds.

At bathtime, run cold water into the bath first, then add some hot. Check the temperature with your elbow before your child gets in, and stay with them the whole time they are in the bath.

Babies and toddlers will grab at brightly coloured objects, such as mugs. If you're having a hot drink, put it down well out of reach before you hold your baby. Keep hot drinks well away from all young children. A hot drink can still scald 15 minutes after it was made.

After warming a bottle of formula, shake the bottle well and test the temperature by placing a few drops on the inside of your wrist before feeding. It should feel lukewarm, not hot.

Avoid heating up bottles of formula in a microwave. Use a bottle warmer or jug of hot water instead.

Toddlers will play with anything they can reach, so keep matches and lighters out of young children's sight and reach.

Use a kettle with a short or curly flex to stop it hanging over the edge of the work surface, where it could be grabbed.

When cooking, use the rings at the back of the cooker and turn saucepan handles towards the back, so they cannot be grabbed by little fingers.

When you've finished using your iron or hair straighteners, put them out of reach while they cool down. Make sure your child cannot grab the flex while you're using them.

Keep button batteries well away from babies and small children, as they can cause severe internal burns if swallowed.

Liquid laundry capsules can cause chemical burns if the liquid gets into a child's eyes, nose or mouth. Keep them out of sight and out of reach.

Drowning

Babies can drown in as little as 5cm (2 inches) of water. Drowning is one of the commonest causes of child death - it's often silent, so you won't necessarily hear any noise or struggle.

Baths are the commonest place for babies and young children to drown. Stay with your baby or toddler the whole time they're in the bath. Never leave them for a moment, even if there's an older brother or sister in the bath with them.

If you use a bath seat, remember that it's not a safety device. You still need to stay with your baby all the time.

Empty the bath as soon as you've taken your child out.

If you have a garden pond, fence it off, fill it in or securely cover it.

Watch toddlers when they're in a paddling pool or playing near water. Empty the paddling pool straight after use and then store away.

Make sure your garden is secure so that your child cannot get into neighbouring gardens, where there may be ponds or other drowning hazards.

House fires

Domestic fires are a significant risk to children. Smoke from a fire can kill a child in a few minutes. Chip pans and cigarettes are the most common causes.

Never fill a chip pan more than one-third full of oil, or get a deep fat fryer instead. If a chip pan does catch fire, switch off the hob, leave the room, close the door and call the fire brigade.

Extinguish and dispose of cigarettes, cigars and pipes carefully, particularly at night or if you are tired.

Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them every week and change the batteries every year.

At night, switch off electrical items before you go to bed and close all doors to contain a potential fire.

Work out an escape plan for your family and tell your children what to do in case of a fire. Practise the plan regularly.

If you have an open fireplace, always use a fireguard that encloses the whole fireplace and make sure it's attached to the wall. Do not place anything on it or hang things from it.

Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.

Glass-related injuries

Broken glass can cause serious cuts. The following advice may help you keep your child safe.

Use safety glass at a low level, such as in doors and windows. This shatters less easily than normal glass. Look for the British Standards (BS) kitemark.

Make existing glass safer by applying a shatter-resistant film.

When buying furniture that includes glass, make sure it has the BS kitemark.

Always dispose of broken glass quickly and safely - wrap it in newspaper before throwing it in the bin.

If you own a greenhouse or cold frame (a structure to protect plants from the winter cold), make sure it has safety glazing or is fenced off from children.

Do not let a baby or toddler hold anything made of glass.

Further information

The following websites also provide more information on preventing accidents in babies and toddlers:

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Each year 40,000 under-5s are admitted to hospital following accidents, and lots of these accidents are preventable. Here's how to protect your baby or toddler from some of the commonest accidents that affect young children. Food is the most common thing for babies and toddlers to choke on.

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Always stay with your baby in or near the bath.
Always keep at least one hand on their body at all times.
Bath time is a great way to establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
Make sure you have everything that you need before you begin, such as a clean nappy and towel.

Additional information links
Hungry little minds

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Is exciting and encourages your baby to use their senses in a fun way. It helps them to anticipate what might happen next and recognise patterns.

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📹Exploring music, movement and singing songs together

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📹Exploring music, movement and singing songs together

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Songs, rhymes and musical games are all great ways for parents and carers to communicate with babies and young children. Musical activities make communication fun and enjoyable, and have been associated with later educational outcomes.

Singing songs and rhymes with your baby and young child not only support language development and later reading skills by encouraging children to listen carefully to predict, it also promotes movement and coordination when using accompanying actions.

Some musical activities that support early communication and language include:

Singing songs in a child's home language

Singing the same songs multiple times to allow children to fully understand and make connections

Singing songs with actions

Using new words when singing to extend vocabulary

Adding music to stories

Allowing children to play freely with musical instruments

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Rock-a-bye Baby: singing helps your baby grow | National Literacy Trust

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Songs, rhymes and musical games are all great ways for parents and carers to communicate with babies and young children. Musical activities make communication fun and enjoyable, and have been associated with later educational outcomes.

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Five things to help your baby's brain development 

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Five things to help your baby's brain development 

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Respond • Cuddle • Relax • Play • Talk

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Plan baby play time with articles, videos and resources on babies' play and learning, toys, tummy time, talk, literacy activities, TV guidelines and more.

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In a bag or a pillowcase collect some everyday items that you have around the home. e.g. greaseproof paper, a scarf, a bath toy, keys, a cup. Name the objects as you pull one out at a time and explore these together.

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Put some music on and do some slow movements with your baby.

Make sounds using things found around the home, such as using wooden spoons and pans and scrunching baking paper.

When your baby is able to stand you can hold their hands and dance together!

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Your baby's body grows better when you give them good food. Your baby's brain grows better when you do five simple things that feed the growing brain: Respond • Cuddle • Relax • Play • Talk .

These are the building blocks for a healthy brain. A healthy brain will help your baby to be happy in themselves and enjoy their family and make friends. Every day will bring many opportunities to give your baby’s brain what it needs to grow well.

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This guide aims to provide you with  information, advice and activities to do with your child during your first five years together.

Parenting is all about learning so please do not worry about getting everything right, your baby and young child will think you are fantastic. If you are worried or concerned please book a slot with ‘Chat to a playworker’ and they will be there to help you – Call 020 7364 5277

If you need advice around feeding, contact the Tower Hamlets baby feeding service

If you have any concerns around the health of your baby, contact your health visitor or doctor.

We would love to see you at our ZOOM sessions. These sessions give you the opportunity to connect with other parents and their children.

Check this page from time to time as we will be updating it with new ideas and activities, including up to date Children's Centre information.

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Sensory play includes any activity that stimulates the senses: touch, smell, taste, sight and hearing. Your baby will be using their senses to explore the world around them, this will help them to communicate and problem solve.

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Children develop language at different rates-understanding what is typical can help you identify speech and language problems early. If you have concerns around your child's speech and language development, please get in contact with your local Children's Centre.

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Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives

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Our guide to the typical stages of speech and language development in babies, children and young people.

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As your child gets older, they should aim for a minimum of 60 minutes of moving actively every day. Here are some ideas to get them moving!

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Activities for Kids | Kids' Activities - Change4Life

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Build some physical activity into your child's day, from 10 Minute Shake Up games to sports the whole family can enjoy.

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Your child may be eligible for 15 hours of funded childcare from the term of their second birthday. The early learning for two-year olds is only available to children and families that meet certain criteria. 15 hours a week free care may be available if you are on low income, if your child has additional needs or if your child is looked after by us. For more information and to check your eligibility, please call the children's centre on 020 7364 1553.

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There are many schemes available to help you give the best start to your child and to help you with the costs.

On this page you will find information on the following:

1. Finding local childcare

2. Early learning for two-year-olds

3. Nursery education for three- and four-year-olds

4. Early years pupil premium

5. 30 hours of free childcare

6. Working tax credit/childcare tax credit

7. Childcare vouchers

8. Care to Learn

9. Disability Access Fund

10. Childcare Sufficiency Assessment

Finding local childcare

The Family Information Service provides free, impartial information and advice on childcare as well as general information on a wide range of services for children, young people (birth to 25 years old), and parents and families.

Please refer to the Local Offer to find childcare providers in Tower Hamlets.

Early learning for two-year-olds

Some children may be entitled to15 hours of free childcare in the term after their second birthday. Early learning for two year olds is only open to children that meet certain criteria such as coming from a low income family, requiring additional needs or if they are currently looked after by the council.

If you have an older child who is currently at school and getting free school meals, younger children will probably be able to get a free two year old place as well.

Tower Hamlets has some excellent nurseries, pre -school playgroups and childminders that will help children learn and play.

For more information and to check whether you qualify for 15 hours of free childcare, please contact the Family Information Service on 020 7364 6495 or complete the application form and send it to Early.Learning@towerhamlets.gov.uk. If you need help filling out the application form please go to your local children's centre.

Find out what parents say about our service.

Please note that Universal Credit eligibility criteria for the two year old offer and EYPP are currently subject to consultation.
Complete the early learning for two years application form
You can find more information about the criteria on the Early learning for two-year-old fact sheet. Read the Early learning for two-year-old fact sheet.

Apply for early learning for two-year olds

You can check your eligibility by contacting your nearest Children's Centre, Integrated Early Years' Service on 020 7364 1553 or the Family Information Service on 020 7364 6495.

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Nursery education for three and four-year-olds

Every child in Tower Hamlets can have 15 hours of free nursery education in the term immediately after they reach three years of age. The childcare applies directly to the local authority for funding. Parents must show proof of their child's age to the childcare provider and sign an agreement form in order to receive funding.

The payment for 15 hours per week is done for a 38 week period per year, but the 15 hours can be taken at a provider in more flexible way to suit the child's and family's needs.

A free part-time place might be available to the child if they are attending an Ofsted-registered childcare setting such as:

a pre-school playgroup

a local authority day nursery

a private sector day nursery

a voluntary sector day nursery

a registered childminder.

Early years pupil premium - extra funding for your childcare provider

The Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) gives early years education providers extra funding to support disadvantaged three and four year olds. Your child might be able to get additional funding and equipment to support their needs.

Your childcare provider (nursery, childminder or school) could be able to receive funding for your child.

Contact the Family Information Service on 020 7364 6495 to check whether you are eligible.

The Early Years Pupil Premium has more information.

Since September 2017, the government has increased the number of hours of free childcare available to eligible working parents of three and four olds, which now means they can have up to a total of 30 hours free early education and childcare. The offer is made up of a total of 1,140 hours over the year, which is 30 hours per week for the 38 weeks of the school year (all though this offer can be spread over the full year if it suits the needs of working parents better).

Please note that not all providers can offer the full hours that parents are entitled to get, so it will be possible for parents to use more than one childcare provider to ensure that they are getting all their hours.

Read the Early years pupil premium factsheet.

Extension to free childcare entitlement for 3 & 4 year olds for working parents

From September 2017 the government is increasing the number of hours of free childcare available to eligible working parents of 3&4 year olds, this will be on top of the universal free early education entitlement of 15 hours per week meaning a total of up to 30 hours free early education and childcare for working parents. The offer consists of a total of 1,140 hours across the year, 30 hours per week for the 38 weeks of the school year, although this offer can be stretched across the full year to better suit the needs of working parents.

Not all providers will be able to offer the full hours that parents are entitled to so parents will be able to use more than one childcare provider to ensure they can access their full entitlement.

Can I receive free childcare?

The HMRC Childcare Choices website determines who can receive funding for childcare.

In order for parents to get funding, they must have their unique eligibility code for the extra 15 hours. If the provider agrees, parents who qualify can take the 1140 hours over 51 weeks (22 hours per week) or term time over 28 weeks ( 30 hours per week).

Both parents must be in employment* (or the single parent must have a job) and each parent, on average, should earn:

A weekly minimum equivalent to 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (NMW) or National Living Wage (NLW), and

Under £100,000 per year.

Visit the Childcare Choices website to get your eligibility code. You can also use the website to check if your three or four year old child is entitled to funding. If you do not have access to a computer, call the HMRC Customer Interaction Centre on 0300 123 4097 to find out if you qualify for funding or clear up any queries.

Please note that for three year olds, the entitlement starts from the term immediately after the child's third birthday until the term in which they become four. It is strongly recommended that parents access the Childcare Choices website now, if they think that they can qualify for the next term along with their child.

The following documents provide useful information on the new entitlement. Please be aware that all these documents are subject to change as national policy develops:

*This includes self-employed people who meet the average earnings criteria.

www.gov.uk and the Childcare Choices website will provide more information on childcare in general and childcare tax credits.

Reconfirming your eligibility for 30 hours free childcare and/or tax-free childcare
Details on how parents reconfirm their eligibility for 30 hours free childcare and/or tax-free childcare.
Information on how parents can reconfirm their entitlement to 30 hours of free childcare and/or tax-free childcare.

If you have applied for and/or claimed up to 30 hours of free childcare and/or tax-free childcare, you must re-confirm your eligibility. The Department for Education (DfE) has said that:

You must re-confirm even if your child has not begun their 30 hours placement

You must re-confirm three months from the date you applied to get the extra hours

You must re-confirm every three months

How to reconfirm

1. The DfE will send you a text and/or email four weeks before your reconfirmation deadline. This will prompt you to log into your Childcare Service account.

2. In the Childcare Service account, you must go to "secure messages" (which you can access at any time). The reconfirmation section will tell you what your reconfirmation date is.

3. You have up to four weeks before your reconfirmation date to let the DfE know whether you are still entitled to 30 hours free childcare or tax free childcare.

The reconfirmation process could differ for some parents depending on for example, if:

If your circumstances haven't changed (tick a box to confirm this).

If your circumstances have changed (you must amend and resubmit your details).

If you completed your original application over the phone (please contact the customer interaction centre to reconfirm your eligibility).

If you currently have a temporary code (these start with 11). You must complete a new application. In order to get a permanent code, you must go through your childcare service account.

Sign in to your account to re-confirm your eligibility.
What if I miss the re-confirmation deadline?
If you miss the deadline, or if your circumstances change, you will receive a message to say that your entitlement has stopped, you will have a period of grace where you will be able to keep your chjldcare place. In this instance, you should talk to your childcare provider.

You will also need to submit another application if you become eligible again for 30 hours or tax-free childcare following the circumstances below. Fallen out of eligibility

Missed the reconfirmation deadline

Your provider must be given your code in order to confirm that you child can continue to get a childcare place.

Please note that the information above applies to additional hours placements offered by maintained nursery schools and nursing classes within primary schools.

Apply for a 30 hours code in good time. Do it before the summer holidays on childcarechoices.gov.uk

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Working tax credit - the childcare provision

Working tax credit is a payment provided by the Government in order to support working families on low incomes. If you have at least one child or if you are bringing up children and paying for registered childcare, you might be able to receive the childcare provision of the working tax credit.

You could have up to 70 per cent of your childcare costs covered by the childcare provision of working tax credit, depending on your individual circumstances. Contact the tax credit helpline on 0845 300 3900 to find out whether you could benefit from this programme or see the childcare tax credits if you just need to know more about this particular type of childcare provision.

More information on this childcare provision is available on the working tax credit fact sheet.

Read the Childcare element of working tax credit factsheet.

Childcare vouchers

Many employers help their employees to pay for childcare with childcare vouchers. Childcare vouchers, is a payment method used for paying for certain types of childcare. The employer gives you the option to take a portion of your salary, a 'salary sacrifice', in childcare vouchers. You will not have to pay tax or make National Insurance Contributions (NIC) on the first £55 (per week) or £243 (per month).

As the childcare vouchers are tax and NIC free, parents will save money by paying for their childcare with vouchers rather than from their taxable pay packet. Your employer must be part of the scheme in order for you to be able to receive childcare vouchers.

Care to Learn

Young parents under the age of 20 receive funding support to help with the cost of childcare while they are learning and this is called 'Care to Learn'. This form of funding pays up to £175 per child per week towards childcare and travel costs.

In order to receive Care to Learn funding you must:

Receive education or look to start some form of education that receives some public funding

On the day of your course or learning programme be under 20 years of age

Care for your own child or children.

Care to Learn funding can be claimed by either the child's father or mother, as long as the other parent is unable to provide childcare, or the other parent is not claiming childcare tax credit. If you have more than one child you can get support for all of them.

Only Ofsted registered childcare providers can be used and the Family Information Service can you help you to find a childcare provider in your area.

Care to Learn will pay the childcare provider directly and any money needed to help with travel costs will be paid straight to the learning or training provider, who will then pass that onto the parent.

For more information on Care to Learn call the helpline on 0800 121 8989 or visit www.gov.uk/care-to-learn

Disability Access Fund

The Disability Access Fund (DAF) is the new funding system for Early Years' providers to help children with disabilities or special educational needs. The funding helps with access to Free Entitlement places for Early Years, by supporting providers in making reasonable adjustments to their settings.

Childcare Sufficiency Assessment

Tower Hamlets' Integrated Early Years' Service (IEYS) has a statutory duty under the Childcare Act 2006, to ensure that there is sufficient and accessible high quality Early Years and childcare provision.

Before you become a childminder or childcare provider, you need to research what childcare provision is already available in your area to ensure that it is worth having a business. You must be able to meet the local needs of your community.

The IEYS collects headcount data on a regular basis from existing early years' providers, which is added to our sufficiency map. The map gives an overview of the availability and quality of early years' provision.

IEYS suggests that you do your own market research as well as making use of the headcount data as we do ask about children on roll and their current capacity.

Download the Childcare Sufficiency Assessment.

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There are many schemes available to help you give the best start to your child and to help you with the costs.

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Children's Centres can support you and your child with the transition to school. Please contact your local Children's Centre for more information.

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Mind Stretchers have created a virtual nature school with the aim of connecting you and your family to nature, even if you can't get outside!

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More Music have created simple and fun songs, clapping games, rhymes and music to create at home with your baby or young child.

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Due to the recent announcement that we are suspending our programme until Monday 20 April, we would like to share some resources that will help you continue music making whilst our weekly sessions are postponed.

Although we are temporarily closing our doors, we will be active online and will be sharing different and creative ways of making music throughout this time - starting with the resources below. We know these are unusual and worrying times, but music and the arts remain essential to well-being. If you find yourself with extra time to spare, why not pick up an instrument or learn a new song!

Including bass clef, mandolin, ukulele, guitar and banjo to help you practice - all copyright free.

Singing for Better Breathing Resource - Click HERE for more

Great British Home Chorus with Gareth Malone - register HERE

Gareth Malone announces a new initiative to bring together both amateur and professional performers around the country as we embark on the next stage of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Great British Home Chorus aims to give everyone the opportunity to contribute their voices and instruments to an ambitious digital music project, conceived in the light of many closures to communal rehearsal spaces nationwide.

The Sofa Singers is a free online singing event that aims to bring people together from around the world to spark joy and human connection. Set up by vocal leader James Sills as a response to global self isolation during the Coronavirus outbreak, The Sofa Singers bring together hundreds of people in real time for 45 minute choir rehearsals, learning a classic song with some optional harmonies/backing parts.

Next session: Fri 20 March at 7.30pm.

MARCH Network Creative Isolation - Click HERE for more

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settings ACCEPT

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Due to the recent announcement that we are suspending our programme until Monday 20 April, we would like to share some resources that will help you continue music making whilst our weekly sessions are postponed.

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Sing-Up have produced a fantastic resource of sing-along songs, with their playlists organised into easy categories including, silly songs, inspiring songs and movement songs! These activities are suitable for children age 3 and up.

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Welcome to our free resources page. Here you can try out some of our songs and activities and get a flavour of what Sing Up is all about. Enjoy exploring our free resources below or using this handy A-Z list.

Register as a Sing Up Friend for free access to more songs and resources and try out the full Membership experience.

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Welcome to our free resources page. Here you can try out some of our songs and activities and get a flavour of what Sing Up is all about. Enjoy exploring our free resources below or using this handy A-Z list.

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Singing is essential to language development and this project celebrates our rich language diversity. Discover songs sung in many different home languages here-from birth onwards.

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All Join in | Education & Skills | MUSiK

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ALLJOIN IN Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes Project A series of fun, engaging videos of families with children under the age of five performing Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes in...Read More

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Support for families with disabled children

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Support for families with disabled children

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Contact for families with disabled children has some really useful tips and links to further support.

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We understand that life with a disabled child brings unique challenges, and we exist to help families feel valued, supported, confident and informed. To make that happen, we work in three closely linked ways.

We support families with the best possible guidance and information

Our national advice, information and support service
We provide online, printed and helpline advice on education, benefits and finances, childcare, social care, medical information and more.

Our national programmes
We run programmes across the UK, including information sessions, workshops, drop-ins in hospitals and parenting courses.

Fledglings shop
Our Fledglings shop sells toys, clothing and sensory products that make life a bit easier for a parent and more fulfilling for their child.

Support for professionals
As well as supporting families, we help a wide variety of professionals in their work with disabled children.

We bring families together to support each other

We help local and national groups in their work bringing parents carers together for practical and emotional support.

Online community
Our online community is a place for parents to chat to other families online about anything and everything that affects their child and family.

Family workshops
Our workshops and information sessions for families, on lots of different topics, are also a chance to meet others and share tips and strategies.

Our offices across the UK organise family fun days and outings, giving parents and kids the chance to make new friends.

We help families to campaign, volunteer and fundraise to improve life for themselves and others

Campaigns & research
We campaign with families to remove the barriers they face every day and conduct research so we understand the scale of the issues families face.

Parent carer participation
We are the Department for Education's parent carer participation delivery partner in England, helping parents work together with professionals to make improvements to local services.

Volunteering
For those able to, we have opportunities to give us a helping hand, whether through stewarding a fundraising event or becoming a media spokesperson.

We couldn't support families of disabled children without our generous supporters and determined fundraisers.Fundraising

Browse the pages below to find out more

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what contact does to help and support families with disabled children

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Contact - for families with disabled children

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We understand that life with a disabled child brings unique challenges, and we exist to help families feel valued, supported, confident and informed. To make that happen, we work in three closely linked ways. Our national advice, information and support service We provide online, printed and helpline advice on education, benefits and finances, childcare, social care, medical information and more.

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For lots of ideas around how you can support your child's early language development

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Simple, fun activities for kids, from newborn to five

Many little things light up hungry little minds. Kids take everything in, and even the smallest things you do with them can make a big difference.

They love it when you chat, play and read with them, even when they're too young to understand everything. Whatever the time and wherever you are, you can turn almost anything into a game. And every little thing you do together will help set them up nicely for the day they start school.

We understand that due to the coronavirus outbreak, you and your children are spending more time at home and you might be looking for a bit more inspiration for things to do. Start by trying some of these simple, fun activities.

You'll find some short videos and simple, fun activities that you and your children can do together.

We've broken down the activities by age, but no one knows your child better than you do.

So you could pick and choose the ideas that feel right for you, adapt our suggestions or even come up with your own. And you can use whatever language you feel most comfortable with.

You can find more ideas at:

See our get more information section for more links to fun things to do.

We understand how hard things are at the moment. If you need some further advice on how to support your child, read our guidance on helping 2 to 4 year olds learn at home during coronavirus (COVID-19).

Ideas: 0 - 6 months

Fun activities to add to your routine

Let your baby splash at bath time. Talk about what's happening and how it feels. Say the same words and do the same actions over and over - things like pouring water on their feet and saying, 'Wash, wash, wash your toes.'

Other ideas

Play together with fabric books that have different textures. Try scrunching the fabric to get your baby's attention or stroking their hands with the fabric. Name the objects you are playing with and talk about how they feel.

Sing lullabies which are simple, soothing and repetitive - for example, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

Say or sing rhymes with actions where you tickle and touch your baby - for example, songs like Round and Round the Garden.

Stick your tongue out and see if your baby can copy you. Try blinking your eyes and making funny noises with your lips.

Copy the noises your baby makes. React to what they're doing - try saying things like, 'Oh, you're telling me a story,' or, 'Wow, you can make loud noises.'

Have a guess at what your baby might be thinking or feeling and put it into words - for example, 'It looks like you're sleepy.'

Ideas: 6 - 12 months

Fun activities to add to your routine

Try doing actions that go with what you're saying - like waving when you say 'Hello.' You can do this every morning when your child wakes up.

Other ideas

Put some everyday items in a bag and get your baby to find what's in there. Talk about what they are and how they feel.

Play peekaboo games using a scarf or your hands to hide your face, saying things like 'Where are you? There you are!'

Gather a few noise-making objects like spoons to bang on saucepans. Watch what your child does and copy it and describe what you are doing.

You could also act out actions in songs. Try patting your palms together or on your legs to the beat of Pat-a-cake, Pat-a-cake. See if your baby will clap along with you.

Look at a picture book with your child, notice what they are looking at and describe it. For example, 'Oh, see the dog,' or 'Wow, she's jumping.' Try to do this within a couple of seconds, before their attention moves on to something else.

Go on a walk/ carry your baby around the house and listen out for noises such as the washing machine, or a clock ticking. Find the sound and make the noise. Tell your baby what it is: 'I can hear the washing machine'.

Ideas: 12 - 24 months

Fun activities to add to your routine

At mealtimes, say the names of the foods your child is eating and say what they're like, using words like 'crunchy', 'squishy', 'sour', 'cold', 'warm'.

Give your child choices, so that they can hear and understand more words. For example, 'Do you want an apple or an orange?' Make sure you give them time to respond!

Try playing pretend games. For example, you can make meal times fun by pretending to be a dinosaur eating trees as you bite into some broccoli, or a monkey enjoying a slice of banana. Make sure that both you and your child have some food to try!

Other ideas

Look at picture books together. With each new page, give your child time to point out things to you. Talk about what they can see using words for actions as well as for things - for example, 'The monkey is eating.'

When your child starts using words respond to what they say and make it a conversation using words for actions as well as things, for example, 'Mummy? Yes, Mummy is cooking dinner.'

Play with your child with things they are interested in. Start a simple game with them by making a story together out of your child's favourite teddy. Then encourage your child to take the lead.

Do some colouring-in with your child, by drawing your own pictures or searching online. Make the game fun and talk about the pictures and colours while you are playing.

Let your child copy what you do around the house. For example, if you are brushing your hair, give them the brush and let them brush their hair too. If you are cleaning, give them a cloth and let them copy you.

Ideas: 2 - 3 year olds

Fun activities to add to your routine

Do daily tasks with your child. Talk about what you are doing and why you are doing it. When hanging up the washing, you could say 'The clothes are wet, let's hang them up to dry.' Give them simple tasks like passing you the socks. Praise them for helping.

Other ideas

You could make a photo-book of funny, or memorable, family events and talk about it with your child.

Sing songs together that encourage your child to use their imagination. For example, try singing The Wheels on the Bus and ask your child to suggest other things on the bus and describe what sound they make.

Read picture books together. Talk about the things they can see and how we use them. For example, 'A bed is something we sleep in.'

Use books to talk about your own experiences, and theirs, giving them time to respond. 'Oh look, there is a cow. What sound do cows make?'

When you're sharing a book with your child, sit close together or even build a den to sit in.

Talk to your child about what has happened so far in the day - for example, 'We spoke to Grandma on the phone this morning, didn't we?' And talk about what is going to happen next - 'After lunch we'll do the washing up'.

Put on some music and play 'musical statues'. Dance together then stop the music - see who will be the first person to stand still.

Ideas: 3 - 5 year olds

Fun activities to add to your routine

Try sharing familiar books at bedtime. Pause when reading so that your child can join in. Talk about the sounds at the beginning of words and words that start with the same sound (like words beginning with P).

Encourage your child to recall what has happened in the story. For example, 'Why is bear feeling sad?' Ask them to guess what might happen - 'What should they do next?' - or how the story might end - 'Do you think they're going to find the treasure? Where could it be?'

Other ideas

Try role-playing games together such as shopping. Set items out on the sofa, give your child a bag and some pretend money. Then switch roles and let them be the shopkeeper.

Play teddy bears' picnic. Put soft toys in a circle and give your child a few cups and spoons. Give your child a chance to tell you what to do like, 'Stir teddy's tea.' You could chat to them as you are doing actions, for example, 'let's cut the cake in half'.

Start conversations by using open questions with lots of possible answers, for example, 'What are you going to play with today?'

Plan a treasure hunt game, where your child has to listen to your instructions to find a clue or an object. For example, 'Try looking behind the sofa'. Help your child look for a specific number of objects and count them together - such as 3 cups, 2 pink socks, 5 pens.

Help your child make a puppet show about their favourite story using objects around the house.

Play sorting games together. Collect a range of different household objects and practise sorting them into different groups, perhaps by size or colour. Once you have finished, count all the objects in each group.

Play a make-believe journey game with your child. Make a car out of a cardboard box that you decorate together, or just grab some cushions, pile in a few teddy bear passengers, and let your child drive you off on an adventure.

Apps for 2 to 5 year olds

We know that phones or tablets are part of many families' everyday lives and kids love to use them, but it's not always easy to know which apps and games can benefit your child's learning.

That is why we have given a quality mark to apps that an independent educational panel believes have good educational value.

Why not try these with your child alongside the other activities listed on this site?

The following apps contain phonics content and therefore are only intended for use with school-aged children. Used with your child, they may be a way to support the phonics they are already learning at school, however, you should check with your child's class teacher that the approaches used in the apps align with your school's teaching methods before using at home.

The following app is intended for use with school-aged children. A child could use this app for further independent reading once they have successfully completed their school's phonics programme. If you are unsure when this is, we recommend that you discuss the matter with your child's class teacher before using the app with your child.

The Department for Education is not the creator, owner, editor, manager or provider of the apps listed. The app providers are neither affiliates, associates nor partners of the Hungry Little Minds campaign, the content of this website is solely the property of the Department of Education and does not necessarily reflect the views or position of any of the providers listed.
Early years apps pilot: home learning environment legal disclaimer.

More information on apps

Choosing an app for your child - the FEED test

There are lots of apps that say they are 'educational', but you'll want to reassure yourself that's the case and that they are right for your child. The FEED check may help.

Fun - Will your child enjoy the app? Will it keep their attention?

Educational - Is there a clear educational aim? Do you know what your child will learn? Will it keep them learning and allow them to progress?

Engaging - Will it help your child if they get stuck? Will it give them feedback and let them know when they've got challenges right?

Design - Is it attractive and easy to use? Is it inclusive and does it avoid gender and racial stereotypes? Can an adult change the settings? Is it safe, with links to the internet and adverts protected behind a parental gate?

Find more information on how to support your child's learning through apps and get advice on screen time:

Get more information

You can find out more information and get more ideas and activities to do with your child from the following websites:

Online educational resources

We have recently brought together a range of online educational resources to support children at home during the coronavirus outbreak.

Communication, Language and Literacy

Audible - all children's audiobooks are available for free while early years settings are closed.

Authorfy - access to masterclasses on texts from a range of authors, including videos from the authors and activities linked to novels. Registration required (age 5+).

BookTrust - a site with recommended booklists, categorised by age range and topic, including fiction and non-fiction, family activities are included in the 'home time' section.

Classroom Secrets - downloadable resource packs which cover a range of subjects, including reading and writing (age 3+).

Literacy Counts - free home learning packs for parents covering reading and writing. Registration required (age 4+).

Purple Mash - free during the school closure period, each week, a selection of daily activities is produced on different subjects, including comprehension and grammar. Registration required.

Rising Stars - books and reading resources available online, registration required (age 4+).

Storytime with Nick - films of well-loved stories read by Nick Cannon, a trained actor, teacher and trainer (age 4+).

The Children's Poetry Archive - an archive of spoken poetry recordings, children can listen to poems read out loud (age 4+).

The Reading Agency - the Summer Reading Challenge takes place during the summer holidays. Registration required.

Maths

Bloomsbury - activity ideas for young children.

Cbeebies Help Your Child With Maths - videos for numeracy development with fun activities that can be applied to everyday life and play, and for children aged 3+, online activities with Numberblocks.

Mathematics Mastery - downloadable guidance and resource packs for parents and pupils (age 4+).

Maths with Parents - videos and activities for home-based learning, with resources for both parents and teachers available. Registration required (age 3+).

Nrich - a range of activities, some are interactive and some are to be completed offline. Activities are categorised by age range (age 3+).

Top Marks - a range of interactive maths games categorised by age group (age 3+).

White Rose Maths (home learning) - presentations and downloadable workbooks which are easy to use for parents, new material is being released each week (age 4+).

Physical development

Personal, social and emotional development

Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

The Autism Page - online support and information aimed at supporting parents of young children with autism. Information and ideas to support the implementation of helpful teaching methods.

Charles Dickens Primary School - the Jenny Wren Virtual School SEN Hub offers daily lessons for pupils with moderate learning difficulties, focusing on Makaton and a daily activity to complete with a parent or teacher.

PMLD thematic units - from the Northern Ireland Curriculum - comprehensive guidance on themed activities for learners with PMLD. A full sensory curriculum is offered. More suitable for teachers, but activities and resources will be useful for parents too.

Priory Woods School - resources from an award-winning, innovative school, rated by Ofsted as outstanding and put together by SEND teachers for parents and teachers. The resources include apps and programmes.

School Cloud - a secure online video call service to connect pupils, parents and teachers. Potential use might include pupils with SEND and/or their parents having a weekly video call with a SENCo to monitor their progress with home learning. Registration required.

SEN Teacher - downloadable and printable resources that can be adapted to suit the needs of pupils. Resources are aimed at a range of abilities. The website has over 300,000 regular users and is suitable for both parents and teachers.

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Your child's brain grows the fastest during the first 5 years of life. As a parent, you play a huge role in feeding your child's mind and helping them to communicate. Check out our top tips for simple activities that you can do with your child as part of your daily routine.

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Babies show signs that they’re naturally inclined to interact with others soon after they’re born. Find out more here for what to expect when from birth to two years. If you are worried about anything at all, get in contact with your local Children's Centre.

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How and when do babies develop social skills? | Baby & toddler articles & support | NCT

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It’s amazing to watch our babies learn social skills, smile and interact. Professor Angelica Ronald looks at the stages of social development and how parents can encourage their baby at each step.

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Any daily activity is an opportunity to talk, bond and have fun with your child. Find out more here.

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Tiny Happy People - Activities for 2-3 year olds

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A collection of activities and things to do with children aged 2-3 years old.

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Simple and fun activities that you can easily build into your day

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Almost any daily activity is a chance to talk, bond and have fun with your child. They're also proven to help your child's development, from newborn to 5 years.

Just select an age range below for loads of inspiration of things to do with your child today.

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Fun activities and things to do with your child to help with their communication skills.

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The Tower Hamlets Integrated Early Years Service believes that each child is an individual with their own unique developmental profile. We are committed to inclusion and meeting the individual needs of children. We follow The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities code of practice to support early intervention for all children with additional needs and SEND. We believe that parents are the first educators of their child and have a detailed understanding of their child, their development and their needs. They have a unique perspective of their child to share. For information on services available to children and young people with additional needs and disabilities and their families, please see the Tower Hamlets Local Offer. If you have any concerns around your child’s development or would like to discuss how your child is progressing, please contact your local Children’s Centre. 

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The Tower Hamlets Integrated Early Years Service believes that each child is an individual with their own unique developmental profile. We are committed to inclusion and meeting the individual needs of children. We follow The Special Educational Needs and Disabilities code of practice to support early intervention for all children with additional needs and SEND. We believe that parents are the first educators of their child and have a detailed understanding of their child, their development and their needs. They have a unique perspective of their child to share. For information on services available to children and young people with additional needs and disabilities and their families, please see the Tower Hamlets Local Offer. If you have any concerns around your child’s development or would like to discuss how your child is progressing, please contact your local Children’s Centre. 

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On this page you will find information on:

Children's Centres

We have 12 children's and family centres in Tower Hamlets. These are free and open for all parents and carers who live in the borough to access a range of services:

You can access universal services for pre-birth to five years of age and more specific services for five to 11 years of age by registering with your nearest children and family centre.

Vision

Our vision is for every child in Tower Hamlets to have the best possible start in life - through reducing inequalities and improving quality of life.

Our service supports children and their families to be safe and happy - improving lifelong health and wellbeing.

Core purpose

The core purpose of Tower Hamlets children's centre service is to improve outcomes for all young children and their families, as well as reduce inequalities between the most disadvantaged children and others through early intervention and holistic support.

This is guided by the Sure Start children's centres statutory guidance and will be achieved through the following targets:

Child development and school readiness, which will enable children to become confident and curious learners by providing early learning opportunities:

Through universal and targeted stay and play sessions.

Providing support to access free early learning childcare entitlements.

Working in partnership with schools and other providers.

Raising aspirations and improving parenting skills, which will support parents to give their child the best possible start to life by providing:

Family support.

Evidence-based parenting programmes.

Specialist programmes and targeted services for parents.

Reducing inequalities through supporting parents to improve economic wellbeing.

Reducing health inequalities by improving health and life chances and ensuring that children are safeguarded by supporting parents to access:

A range of health services.

Family support.

Advice and support on public health outcomes.

Partnership with the community and stakeholders.

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List of Children's Centres

For more information about activities and other services available at each centre, please refer to the centre of your choice using the following information:

Around Poplar

115 Three Colt Street,

London,

E14 8AP

Telephone: 020 7364 0540
Spring Term Activity timetable

Chrisp Street

23 - 27 Market Way,

London,

E14 6AH

Telephone: 020 7364 2856

Collingwood

St Bartholomew Gardens,

Buckhurst Street,

London,

E1 5QT

Telephone: 020 7364 0539

If you need general advice and help to find your nearest children's centre, please call us on 020 7364 1553.
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sure start children’s centres statutory guidance

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Tower Hamlets Children's Centre aims to give your child the best start in life. If you are expecting a baby or you are a parent or carer with a child under five, we can provide family support, early education, child and family health services, childcare advice, employment, volunteering and training support.