Introduction
Parents are a child's first and most enduring educators - but when your child starts nursery or school, they will be spending a large part of their time in a different learning environment.
Parents and key workers/teachers have a lot to learn from each other and, by working together, they can really support and extend a child's development.
This two-way flow of information, knowledge and expertise helps provide a full and rounded picture of your child.
As a parent or carer there are lots of fun ways you can engage with your child's learning at home.
How CBeebies can help
It's nice to store away some learning momentoes and keepsakes as your child grows up. Why not make a snazzy suitcase in which to keep all the important things that your child makes, draws and writes?
There are instructions on the Make and Colour pages for how to make a box suitcase out of a cereal box. Paint and decorate the box together and then help your child choose some special things to put inside.
You could stick a picture or photo of your child on the front of the suitcase and pop in any observations or comments you have about their strengths, abilities or the activities they enjoy taking part in.
How to make a magic moment
It's time to Stop-Look-Listen! When your child is playing at home, take some time to stop and observe what they are doing.
Take a photo to show what they are engaged in and make some notes about what they are saying and doing. You could try capturing their voices using a tape recorder. Your child will love to see and hear themselves - it's just like being a film star!
You could build up these observations to make a scrapbook of activities you and your child enjoy doing together. Why not share them with your child's teacher or key worker?
