PARENTS and carers are children's first and often most important teachers.

Leigh Child, Family and Community Partnership believes the first years of a child's life when they are with parents or carers could be the most important ones.

Much 'wiring of the brain' happens in these years -- and you don't have to be a rocket scientist to help your child get off to a good start!

It's the simple things that count like talking to babies as soon as they're born, and getting them to talk (or gurgle) to you. And don't forget to listen to children -- that's how they learn to listen.