Parents give views on what are the best children's activities

Carried out as part of the Scottish Government’s PlayTalkRead campaign, the poll asked parents and carers of 0-3 year olds to vote for their favourite activity to do in their area from a 30 Things To Do list.

Children across the county also loved animals and getting outdoors with activities such as collecting shells on beaches at Broughty Ferry, feeding ducks at Inverleith Pond in Edinburgh, or following the Gruffalo Walk at the Botanic Gardens in St Andrews being amongst their most popular things to do.

Created with the help of parents across Scotland, as well as input from early years practitioners, the list included fun, free and easy playing, talking and reading activities.

Minister for Children and Young People, Aileen Campbell said: ‘‘This list of the best things to do has been created by parents for parents. As a mum of two, I enjoy doing many of the activities included on the 30 things lists with my boys.

‘‘It’s great that some of the best ways to spend time with your children don’t need to involve lots of toys or equipment. Making the most of the great outdoor activities we have on our doorstep and trips to the library are all enjoyable, free ways to spend time together with your children.’’

Here are some reasons as to why giving your children the best possible start in life is so important: Playing, talking and reading helps little brains grow; Playing, talking and reading can bring you and your little one closer, which helps them become more sociable, so they’ll make friends more easily too.

Playing, talking and reading can make your everyday life easier by turning your daily routine into activities you can share so you don’t need to make lots of extra time to fit it in; Playing, talking and reading is all about enjoying your time together. Everyone can do it and you don’t need lots of toys or extra equipment.

Playing, talking and reading helps little ones learn to play for longer before they get bored or frustrated.