Guidance: Barnardo’s launch new baby brain workout

Parents can help babies develop a healthy brain with a fun, new activity programme launched by children’s charity Barnardo’s.

The ‘baby brain workout’ is made up of 15 simple activities that parents can choose to do with their baby or toddler, any time of the day. Playing with water, singing and tickling are just a few of the fun things included.

The activities are based on ‘Five to Thrive’ building blocks of talk, play, relax, cuddle and respond. The building blocks help children aged 0-5 grow up healthy and happy by building their communication skills, learn how to get on with and understand others and manage their personal feelings.

Barnardo’s chief executive Javed Khan, said: “Babies’ minds are built through their experiences so playing with them is not just a lot of fun, it’s also really good for their brain development and well-being.

“Happy times helps raise happy babies. Parents want to do a good job, so we hope these simple activities help mums and dads give their child the best start in life.”

For examples of other parents are using the tool, visit the Barnardo’s pages on Facebook and Twitter this week or simply download the free baby brain workout to get started.