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Why do babies laugh, and what can those early giggles tell us about how they are growing?

Katie Thistleton and Guvna B explore the surprising power of laughter in the very earliest stages of life, from a baby鈥檚 first smile or chuckle to the bigger laughs that come with play, connection and shared joy.

Professor Sophie Scott, Director of the Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience, and Head of the Speech Communications Group at University College London explains how laughter begins far earlier than many parents might think, and that it's not really about jokes at first but grows out of social interaction. She shares how laughter helps babies bond with their parents, and how it can reduce stress and create a sense of safety.

Comedy writer and actor Brona C. Titley brings the lived experience of laughter at home, reflecting on the delight of a baby鈥檚 first giggles to the funny little routines children create before they can even speak. She talks about how humour can turn everyday parenting moments into opportunities for connection, whether that is bedtime, brushing teeth or your child demanding another snack.

For more ideas and parenting resources, visit the CBeebies Parenting website.

If you鈥檝e been affected by anything in this episode, you can find support links on the 麻豆社 Action Line website.

Get in touch: parentingdownload@bbc.co.uk