The importance of home learning environments is being highlighted today.

A major early-years conference is taking place in Dublin which examines the impact of learning surroundings on a child’s development.

Irish and international speakers will explore topics ranging from anxiety in young children to supporting transitions and parenting under pressure.

Director of the Early Learning Initiative Dr Josephine Bleach said there were some key areas parents could work on to improve home learning:

“The big thing is to take time. Listen to your child and respond to their interests,” she said.

“Ask open-ended questions and get them out their exploring the environment in the park or by the sea.”

**The early-years conference by the Early Learning Initiative at National College of Ireland starts at 9.30am.