I want to be teaching my 12 month old as I play with him. What are some good things I can do to jump-start his learning?

Read to him, sing to him... repetition, repetition, repetition.

Songs and poems and storys are always great. At this age he would be especially responsive to colors, shapes, number songs, and the ABC song.

The "Little Einstein" toys and books are great.

Repetition, repetition, repetition! :)

Try playing with sorting toys/shapes. Pick up the shape, say the name of the shape, and sort. Do the same with colors, numbers, etc.

The more senses you can engage, the better the learning experience.

Learning words: Say the word, Act out the word, write the word, etc.

Good luck and happy learning!