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A baby's environment and daily interactions with others can dramatically influence brain development. New insights into brain development suggest that the way in which we care for babies can yield important results.
A stimulating environment and nurturing care can positively affect the intricate wiring (neurons) of the human brain. Within the first few months of life, babies' neurons develop 1,000 trillion connections. This is 20 times the number at birth. The more connections, the better a child will be at learning, remembering, planning and carrying out tasks. These connections also influence the way a child thinks, feels and behaves. What we do in the first five years can make a big difference in a child's development and future.
A baby's best environment includes social interaction, such as eye contact, talking, listening and touching. Plan a broad range of activities each week, such as trips to the park, walks, errands and contact with lots of people. While adding varied activities to daily plans, also provide a routine and a structure. Routines around bedtime, baths or meals make the world seem more stable and familiar to babies. This routine or ritual could be something as simple as a regular bedtime story or song.
Being calm and relaxed when caring for babies can positively affect their emotional development. Respond to a baby's cry each and every time he or she cries. Neglecting a crying baby can produce brain waves patterns that dampen happy feelings.
By providing a safe (child-proof) environment, a baby can enjoy the freedom to explore. This exploration encourages the development of large and small muscles, as well as vision and problem-solving skills. Provide opportunities for babies to grasp and reach for objects.
Pre-math and logic skills can be encouraged by playing peek-a-boo, stacking, dumping, feeling and sorting objects, as well as listening to music. Encourage babies to do things for themselves; help only when he or she shows frustration or asks for help.
Talking, singing, reading books and telling stories all help language development. Describe what you see, or better yet, describe what the baby sees, hears, smells or is touching. When babies babble, listen and repeat what you hear.
Don't despair if your child is older than five. At any age, we can use age-appropriate activities that enhance brain development. An excellent book on the subject is Magic Trees of the Mind, by Marian Diamond and Janet Hopson.
For more information about brain development, request the "Helping Babies Learn" fact sheet from your Colorado State University Extension office. Or access the fact sheet on line at www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/consumer/10220.html.
For more information about this topic, contact Sheila Gains, Colorado State University Extension in Arapahoe County, Colorado at (303) 730-1920 or e-mail:sgains@co.arapahoe.co.us
or contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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