What your baby needs to thrive 2

To develop strong muscles, good balance, and coordination, your baby needs plenty of space to crawl, cruise, and eventually walk. He'll also benefit from safe spaces where he can explore his surroundings without hearing "No" or "Don't touch". The easiest way to do this is to childproof your home where you can.Keep dangerous objects out of your baby's reach. For instance, in the kitchen, put childproof locks on all the cabinets except one. Fill that one with plastic bowls, measuring cups, wooden spoons, and pots and pans that your baby can play with safely.Try to avoid frustrating your child with toys and activities that are way beyond his abilities. However, a little struggling can go a long way towards self-improvement. When an activity doesn't come easily to your baby, he has to work out a new way to accomplish it. That type of problem-solving is the stuff better brains are made of.If he's attempting to open a box, for example, resist the urge to help him. Let him try first. If he continues to struggle, show him how it's done, but then give him back a closed box so he can try again on his own.If you are depressed or upset, you're likely to find it difficult to respond quickly and sensitively to your baby's needs.Simple everyday interactions between mums and their babies are important for children's development. Depression and anxiety can affect how these happen. If you're feeling drained, find ways to divide the household and parenting responsibilities with your partner. If you're a single parent, surround yourself with people who can offer you help and support. And don't forget to treat yourself to some time for yourself once in a while. Being a parent is tiring, and you need time to re-energise.If you work and aren't able to care for your baby during the day, good-quality childcare is essential to your baby's healthy development. The same is true if you need a babysitter regularly. You'll want to find someone who can do all the things mentioned above when you're not around.Whether your childcare provider is a nanny, a relative, or a nursery worker, she should be experienced, caring, and reputable. She should have a genuine love for children and the energy to help your baby thrive.