The process of learning to read and write is called early literacy and begins way before your child is striding off to school. Educators now know that these skills emerge alongside language development and are intrinsically linked. It doesn't mean

Reading regularly with children can dramatically reduce disruptive behaviour, according to a study carried out at eight primary schools in the London borough of Lambeth by the Institute of Psychiatry. The key to the scheme wasn't reading in itself, but the amount of time parents ...

fine-motor skills; and offers sensory stimulation. Soft balls help teach the concept of cause and effect – if you touch a ball, it rolls. From around three months, if you put a coloured ball just beyond your baby’s reach, it encourages him to reach out

toddlers love… ONE The great explorerYour toddler is a born explorer and even the most unlikely things become a source of fascination and discovery. You need nothing more to satisfy his curiosity than a dustbin filled with enticing rubbish, drainpipes

The beautifully made Arcadia Cot Bed by Bambizi will grow with your child by transforming from a cot, to a bed and, finally, an elegantly curved sofa bed. Made from American maple, it will last a lifetime. £2,380 from Bambizi. 

It’s never too early to start reading stories with your child. In fact, you can start reading to your baby within weeks. It’s a lovely way of interacting with your baby and you’ll be surprise how quickly she starts to engage, looking at the pictures

Spirited and playful, but also functional and practical. Traditional or modern, formal or whimsical, your child’s bedroom is not just where she will lay her head to sleep at night or play during the day. It’s not just a place to snuggle up with a

Ensure your garden has a wide variety of flowers, plants and even weeds, all of which contribute to our ecosystem and will attract a wide range of animal life.Try to create a nest-like structure by growing hedgerows or thick foliage for insects

A silver Jaguar convertible racing through the playground will have every other child green with envy! Junior just love the cheek of this bling silver battery-operated Jaguar, £300 – a snatch compared to the real deal. From Mommy Couture Designs

1. DJ and disco Give your child the run of the CDs for the day and have her put together a playlist for a disco. Ask her to make decorations and name the event, then set a time when she will play DJ (with Dad’s help) while you take to the dance