When my 14-month old-daughter wants me to read to her, she toddles right on over with her book of choice, arms outstretched as she calls out “That, that!”

No matter what I’m doing, it’s my signal to stop, sit down, and spend some quality time reading the same book ten times in a row. Sure, it gets repetitive, but I know that every moment is positively affecting my daughter’s language development.

And while reading is one great way to bond and nurture, playing, singing, talking, and providing a safe and loving home are  just a few of the other ways that The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests for getting your baby and toddler off on the right start.

Infants (birth to 12 months)

Infants learn so much in the first year of life that it is really quite astounding. And an infant’s cognitive development can only benefit from with positive parental involvement. But remember to keep play times for when your child is awake and alert.

Positive parenting tips from the CDC include:

• Talk to your baby. It is soothing to hear your voice.

• When your baby makes sounds, answer him by repeating and adding words. This will help him learn to use language.

• Sing to your baby.

• Play music to encourage a love of music and math.

• Praise your baby and give him lots of loving attention. Spend time cuddling and holding your baby to encourage a sense of security.

• Parenting can be hard work! Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is easier to enjoy your new baby and be a positive, loving parent when you feel good yourself.

Toddlers  (12 to 24 months)

Gone are the days when a simple mobile was enough to entertain your little one for hours (or at least long enough for you to get the laundry folded). At this stage, toddlers are, well, toddling around, alert, aware, becoming more independent, and can now recognize him or herself in a mirror and pictures.

Another fun development is the ability to recognize their body parts. My 14-month-old daughter already knows where her feet, nose, eyes, hair, and tummy are, and I’m loving how much fun it is to watch her discover herself.

How do you encourage your toddler’s cognitive development? CDC recommendations include:

• Reading to your toddler every day.

• Playing matching games with your toddler.

• Continuing to encourage language development by speaking with your toddler. And if you are fortunate enough to be bilingual, like me, you can teach your child your first language.

• Encouraging a sense of adventure by allowing your toddler to explore and try new things.

• And don’t forget that the seemingly mundane, like a bus ride or a walk to the park, are perfect opportunities to teach.

Toddlers (24-36 months)

I’m not there yet, but I am already trying to prepare myself for the “terrible twos.” My daughter’s already a handful, and I am thrilled and terrified at the thought of her growing desire to assert her independence.

So what tips does the CDC have for me to refer to for positive parenting techniques?

• Encourage pretend play. (I’ve already got dress-up clothes ready!)

• Set up a special time to read with your toddler. (Right before bed time is our favorite.)

• Teach simple songs or cultural rhymes like, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” or “Itsy, Bitsy Spider.”

• Play follow the leader or make a parade with your toddler.

For more suggestions on parenting babies and toddlers, visit the CDC.