Why don't little ones come with an instruction manual? When her first child was born, Joy Robertson was young and certain of only one thing--she was going to give her child what he needed to thrive. But first, she had to figure out what that was. A little research and a few childhood development classes sparked a lifelong passion and profession. After three decades of refining and proving her Teaching Joy philosophy as a parent and an educator, Joy has distilled her expertise into this easy-to-understand and even easier-to-use instruction manual for new and seasoned parents, caregivers, and educators who are determined to give children exactly what they need to live a joyful life. For every developmental phase, from newborn to five years old, you will discover: what is naturally unfolding in their bodies and minds activities to build relationship and skill insights to guide your attention and action books and songs that will enrich and accelerate learning No more wondering if you're giving them everything they need. No more mimicking behaviors without understanding why they help (or harm). No more comparing yourself to other parents who seem to have it all together. Replace your overwhelm with SIMPLICITY and JOY.