Helping your baby learn and grow
Your baby’s brain starts developing just weeks after conception and is 80% developed by age two. As a parent or carer, you play a vital role in helping your child learn, communicate and thrive.
What to expect in the early years
Find out how children grow and learn in their early years, and how you can support their development.
Read the Early Years Foundation Stage guide
Local support and services
Health Visiting and School Nursing
Get advice and support from your local health team.
Visit Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
Hungry Little Minds
Sign up for free emails with activity ideas, reminders for health checks, and links to local baby groups.
Join Hungry Little Minds
Family Hubs
Meet other parents, join free sessions, and get advice on family life.
Find your local Family Hub
Library services
Join your local library for free baby bounce, rhyme time and storytelling sessions.
Find a library near you
Activities and advice to support development
Tiny Happy People
Tips and activities to help your baby learn through play and communication.
Visit Tiny Happy People
Stoke Speaks Out
Help your child develop strong communication skills.
Visit Stoke Speaks Out.
PACEY
Create a rich home learning environment with simple ideas and activities.
Visit PACEY
ERIC – Potty training support
Get expert advice and a step-by-step guide to potty training.
Visit ERIC.
Speech, Language and Communication Journey
Learn how your baby’s communication develops from birth to age five.
Visit SLCN Journey
BookTrust
Encourage a love of reading with tips and resources for families.
Visit BookTrust.
Molly Wright: Thrive by Five
Watch a short video on how everyday interactions help your child’s brain grow.
Watch on YouTube.
Need more help?
Speak to your Health Visitor, GP or local Family Hub. You can also explore more services on Staffordshire Connects.