Your child needs high-quality child care. Signs of good child care settings include: small groups of children, consistent caregivers, well-trained staff, an open-door policy, and a clean safe environment.

Sleep periods develop as the brain matures. Sleep is most helpful when it coincides with the brain being in a drowsy state. So, day or night, the best times to soothe a baby to sleep are during times of drowsiness.

Play is a child's work, with benefits far beyond the obvious one: fun! Some ideas for playtime include: jump right in, forget the rules, think like a child, let a child guide his play, take a break, participate enthusiastically, and watch out for over-stimulation.

Fathers who are more involved make a difference. A few things men can do to be involved include: define roles, create unique rituals, take on responsibilities, try to balance work and family, and get creative to overcome long distance.