Comfort, Play & Teach: A Positive Approach to Parenting^TM was developed by the child development experts at Invest in Kids to help you make the most of your child's first five years. Comfort, Play & Teach are three simple ideas, but when you put them into action they can have a big effect on your child's development. In fact, the things you do with your child every day will help him be the best he can be.

Comfort your child - comfort is the first thing that children need from parents. When you comfort your child, she learns to feel secure, loved and valued.

Play with your child - Play is the work of children and you are an essential partner. When you play with your child, he learns to explore and discover the world and his role in it.

Teach your child - Teach is how parents help their children learn. When you teach your child, she learns how to relate to others, solve problems and communicate.

All children need to be comforted and you are your child's main source of comfort. When he is upset, frightened or distressed, it is especially important that you respond with comforting words or actions. When you comfort your child, you help him feel safe and secure. You also strengthen your relationship with him.

Every day, your child will present you with the need to be comforted. Whether it's a baby who can't seem to stop crying, a toddler who has fallen down or a preschooler who is afraid of the clown at the birthday party, they each need some form of comfort.

Here are some ways you can comfort your child:

For more ideas, visit the Comfort, Play & Teach section of our website: