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th ei fp .c a Th e IF P -H al to n H ill s | T hu rs da y, A pr il 11 ,2 01 9 | 28 The years between in- fancy and age six are some of the most important in a child's life. As the early years initiative chairperson for Halton Our Kids Net- work, I work with other ear- ly years professionals who support families with young children. Here's why it's impor- tant to connect and play with your young children every day, with ideas about how to help your little one develop and learn. You're already interact- ing with your child in many beneficial ways, from walk- ing together, to reading at bedtime, to letting them help with chores. Activities like this help children de- velop many important skills. And it's not just about ABCs and 123s - being ready for life, including school, involves physical, emotional, social, commu- nication and problem-solv- ing skills. And a strong connection leads to happier, healthier children. As a parent, you are your child's first, most impor- tant and favourite teacher. You give them confidence to explore their world, identi- fy and express their feel- ings, get along with others and learn. Children are at their best when they feel connected to someone who cares about them. Research tells us that adults shape the way chil- dren think, feel and act right from birth. When we care for each other, we show that we like each oth- er. And it's never too early to start. Throughout the day, find small ways to con- nect with your little one through play, cuddles and laughter. Bring your full at- tention each time. Sing songs while in the car or during bath time. Ask your child about their feelings and listen to what makes them happy, sad or scared. As Dr. Seuss said, some- times you won't know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. Con- nect, play and learn every day! Next time: Risky play - what it is and why it's more than OK! Alison Hilborn is the OKN early years initiative chairperson and Acton Hub co-ordinator. Reach her at CPLE@haltoniparent.ca. Learn more at haltonipa- rent.ca/CPLE. Discover more about family relation- ships at ourkidsnet- work.ca/First6Years. This column is based on in- formation provided by Halton early years profes- sionals. Halton has many helpful resources. If you have concerns about your child, contact a health-care provider. OPINION CONNECT, PLAY AND LEARN EVERY DAY WITH YOUR CHILD STRONG CONNECTION LEADS TO HAPPIER KIDS, WRITES ALISON HILBORN ALISON HILBORN Column SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER AT THEIFP.CA Gary Carr Regional Chair We can all work together to reduce our collective impact on the environment. Please keep the following tips in mind to help keep neighbourhoods clean on windier days: • Put materials at the curb by 7 a.m. the day of collection, not the night before. • Consider using a clear plastic bag for curbside recycling collection. • Place heavier recyclables on top of loose materials. • Put shredded paper, napkins and paper towels in the Green Cart, with the lid latch secured. Visit halton.ca for more waste tips and curbside collection information. Help preventwind-blown litter Meetings at Halton Region, 1151 Bronte Rd., Oakville, L6M 3L1 Visit halton.ca for full schedule. April 17 9:30 a.m. Regional Council Help shape Halton's future. 04 11 19 Provide your input on our draft Strategic Business Plan. Halton Regional Council has developed a draft Strategic Business Plan to guide our work over the next four years. We are asking residents to provide input on this important plan and help shape Halton's future. One way to provide input is at one of our open houses. Come out and learn more about the plan, ask questions, engage with others in your community and participate in a facilitated workshop. Thursday, April 25, 2019 Open house: 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Workshop: 7 - 8:30 p.m. Mold-Masters Sportsplex, 221 Guelph Street, Halton Hills Strategic themes Planning and Growth Management Transportation and Infrastructure CommunityWell Being Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Effective Government Upcoming Public Open Houses Tuesday, April 30 - Milton Monday, May 6 - Burlington Thursday, May 9 - Oakville Can't attend an open house? You can also provide input online. To learn more and get involved, visit halton.ca. Cell: 416-989-7809Dave LoDuca QUALITY BATHROOM RENOVATIONS C C T I L EE RAM I Gold 2018 Halton Hills CONTRACTOR - 7 years! Thanks for your support!