Implemented in developing countries by the Hincks-Dellcrest Centre and in partnership with Christian Children's Fund of Canada (CCFC) and funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) –– the Learning Through Play (LTP) program uses lessons and examples from Canadian parents to support international parents in their ability to stimulate healthy child development. Originally launched with Canadian moms through the Hinks Dellcrest Centre, the program uses easy to follow picture calendars to equip parents, who may not be able to read, with important skills to encourage the early development of their children from birth to six years old.
The calendar, produced by Hincks-Dellcrest Centre, demonstrates with culturally relevant pictures and scenarios what a child is feeling and thinking at different stage of development. By referring to the picture calendar, parents are shown the best ways to nurture their children at different stages of their development in five core areas:
Sense of Self:
Tip - Though it may take longer, encourage your child to do things for themselves so they get better and better at it
Physical:
Tip - Toddlers are very active, monitor them closely in the months they begin to run and climb
Understanding:
Tip - Toddlers learn by imitating, they need many opportunities to practice
Relationships:
Tip- Toddlers get very upset when you leave, but telling them you are leaving and you will be back encourages calmness and trust you will return
Communication:
Tip- Talk to babies often and show them how your mouth moves, it helps them use more words when they start talking.
Mothers in Canada should be proud to know that the early childhood development program they participated in has considerably reduced post-natal depression of mothers overseas by providing them with the skills they need to be a good parent.
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