Don't use baby talk. Use proper English and speak in proper sentences. When your baby starts talking, he will speak in the way you once spoke to him.

Talk to your baby at all times, even if he is too young to reply. Your monologue may go something like this: 'Oh, you've wet yourself. Let's get you changed.' This is to let your baby get used to the sound of words.

Do not use the television set as a babysitter. Engage your child in activities such as drawing and painting. Keep the TV for children's educational programmes.

Do not carry your baby the moment he starts crying. If you pick him up when he cries, your baby will soon register that being carried is the reward for crying. Let the baby calm himself. Carry him once in a while when he is not crying.

Babies can be taught table manners. Seat him in his chair during meal times and make him sit when drinking his milk. He should not be crawling or running about when eating.

Start using flash cards when he is six months old. Give him picture books, sing him short songs and read him nursery rhymes. Don't get disheartened if he does not respond immediately.

Massage your baby often. Being touched makes him feel secure and protected. This will boost his self-esteem and confidence.

Source: Infant school principals