Encouraging mums and dads to ‘talk and sing with babies from birth’

Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development, according to the NSPCC.

A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents, including 166 who live in Yorkshire, revealed that 62 per cent were unaware that the interactions they have with their new baby in moments such as playing, singing or story time can be brain building ones.

The NSPCC has now launched its ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play’ campaign, which aims to show parents why taking a cue from their young child and reacting to what they’re doing is so important. Research has shown that when an infant babbles, gestures or cries and an adult responds positively with eye contact, words or a hug, neural connections are built and strengthened in the child’s brain.

Supporting parents to have these really attentive interactions with their babies can also help to prevent abuse and neglect happening as the child grows older.

The NSPCC campaign seeks to build on the interaction parents are already having with their child, bringing everyday moments into focus and showing how they offer the chance to engage with their baby, with tips on how they can easily fit them into their day. Parents are encouraged to take a look at what their baby is focusing on and how they react, say what they are doing and copy the sounds their baby makes, sing along to their favourite tune or play simple games and see what their baby enjoys.

Helen Westerman, NSPCC campaigns manager for Yorkshire, said: “You don’t have to change your routine to have brain-building moments with your baby. Whether it’s bath-time, bed-time or you’re popping to the shops, there are always moments when you can look, talk, sing and play with your baby.

“We know parents interact with their children all the time, but there’s a real opportunity for them to do it more consciously and give them the best start in life. We hope the ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play’ campaign will resonate with parents and provide some new and simple ideas to help them with vital early year engagement.”

NSPCC research has found some parents struggle with ideas about how to interact with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months.

Visit www.nspcc.org.uk for details and tips.