Children’s early experiences affect the development of their brains and their health. Mental health for babies and toddlers is linked to the quality of children’s early relationships and how their social and emotional development is affected.

A child’s early environment has lasting effects on his or her long-term development. Even though very young children might not always understand what they see and hear, they absorb much from their surroundings and are greatly affected by the adults in their life who they rely upon for support and security.

Trauma’s Tragedy and Treatment is a five-part series by NJTV Correspondent Michael Hill that explores how childhood trauma can impact a person for decades to come.

The words “toddler” and “cooperate” might not seem like they could be joined together into one sentence--the phrase “terrible twos” exists for a reason. But, despite expectations, even very young children can learn to cooperate successfully with practice and encouragement.

Tummy time, which is positioning your infant on his tummy to maneuver about his surroundings, is a crucial step that lets your baby work his muscles in his upper body. Engaging in tummy time allows her to practice motor skills, like neck strength and rolling over, and contributes to physical development such as crawling, sitting up and walking.

When it comes to potty training, much depends on the individual child. Some toddlers start using the potty at 18 months, some at 3 years. Don’t push your child to train before he is ready--it may work against you by creating a frustrating situation. Look for these cues and signs that potty training can begin.

Research shows that infants’ relationships with their parents influence their healthy development. What are some ways you can nurture their natural progress?

Fine motor skills are the small motions we make that use muscles in the fingers, wrists, toes, tongue and lips that are necessary for life skills such as writing and drawing, cutting with scissors, buttoning and unbuttoning, manipulating small items, and feeding oneself with utensils. Additionally, experts say that fine motor skills are related to cognitive development--through our hands, we make the connection between thought and action.

Do you have a child younger than three years old? This video will share ways you can help support your baby’s developing brain.

Arturo Brito MD, the Executive Director of The Nicholson Foundation, and a partner of the Right From the Start NJ public awareness program, was a featured speaker at the “Building a Culture of Health in New Jersey” conference, on November 29, 2017 at Pines Manor in Edison, New Jersey.

Feeding your baby can sometimes be a frustrating experience for new parents, primarily because babies lack the ability to verbally communicate their needs, as well as their approval or disapproval of certain foods. 

What do the experts say about screen time for young children? The American Academy of Pediatrics has new guidelines that may surprise you.

Social skills are an important, yet sometimes overlooked factor in your child’s development.