Your baby's brain is developing continuously. This growth begins during pregnancy and continues until early adulthood. But to develop properly, the brain needs a strong foundation.
The brain is made up of several regions that control everything we do: listen, walk, solve problems or feel feelings. Each region contains millions of brain cells called "neurons". These neurons communicate with each other by transmitting chemical messages in tiny spaces called "synapses". When messages are sent repeatedly, new links are created to form "neural passages". These passages constitute the "wiring" of the brain. During the first years of a baby's life, these connections are formed at an accelerated rate.
But how does this development happen? In fact, parents have an important role to play in promoting the development of their baby's brain. To do this, no need for special equipment or toys, and it's easier than you think!
Did you know…?
At birth, your baby's brain connections are not yet well established. Still malleable, they can be modified or created based on what is happening around your baby. These are the everyday experiences, such as play, reading, learning, interactions and people's reactions, that promote the development of your baby's brain.
The quality of these connections, and therefore the development of your child's brain, will affect their ability to acquire language and solve problems, as well as their academic success. Later, this development may affect his physical and emotional health and his relationships with others.
Relationships are essential . Warm, consistent, positive relationships promote the development of your baby's brain and protect it from the negative effects of stress.
Even infants can experience stress when their living or playing environment is scary or they feel unsafe. "Toxic" stress, much more serious than the daily stress of everyday life, can be caused by long-term problems, such as serious family conflict, poverty, abuse, neglect, exposure to abuse of drugs or alcohol by a parent or the presence of untreated mental illness in a parent. This toxic stress hurts your baby's brain development. It can lead to physical and emotional problems and learning difficulties that appear in childhood and can persist into adulthood. If you are worried about the situation in your home, talk to your doctor or your baby's doctor. As your brain grows, your baby needs:
Live interactive, loving and positive experiences. Your baby's daily experiences contribute to the development of his brain, whether it is related to daily routines or interactions with people around him. Babies need to live and play in healthy places where they have the opportunity to learn and grow. They need your help to learn to recognize fatigue, stress, hunger or the desire to be caressed or cuddled. When you react warmly and predictably to your baby's signs and set up routines, you help him feel safe. He will understand then that he can trust you when he is sick, sad or frightened. Babies rely on their parents and caregivers to meet their needs in a warm, caring and consistent manner.
Participate in fun activities . Talking, reading and singing to your baby is an easy and fun way to support your development. The same goes for simple games like lying on your stomach to play with your young baby or play cuckoo with your five-month-old baby.
Eat healthy foods . If you are able to breastfeed, breast milk is the best food for your baby until the age of six months (and even after, with other foods in addition). Whether you opt for breastfeeding or bottle feeding, do you say that feeding your baby is another opportunity to foster the development of your brain through positive experiences: making eye contact, smiling, and feeling good about yourself. stick against you. As your baby grows up, be sure to offer foods that are rich in iron and various nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables (see below for links to healthy eating resources).
Your baby does not need expensive toys . The loving and smiling faces of the adults who interact with him are his BEST toys. A lot of electronic toys, DVDs and TV shows for babies are supposed to be "educational", but there is no research to prove that they promote baby learning. Watching a DVD or TV show is a passive activity . Babies need to interact actively with you and other people around them to discover the world. Screen time is not recommended for children under 2 years old. Need to check here baby and kids latest equipments.
What can you do?
Meet the needs of your baby . This becomes especially important when your baby is sick or sad, hungry, or in need of comfort. Your baby is also trying to get your attention in a variety of ways: babbling, making noises or smiling. By reacting warmly and consistently, you promote the development of your baby's brain.
Offer a safe and warm environment for your baby . Set up daily routines that your baby can rely on. Create a calm atmosphere at home.
Help your baby discover his surroundings, both inside and out . Babies learn while playing, and you are your child's first playmate. Simple games will help him become familiar with people and the world around him. Do not forget to talk to your baby during daily routines. Tell your baby what's going on, underline the interesting things you both see, and help him develop his other senses: hearing, touch, taste and smell.
Make sure your child receives regular health care . Your baby should be examined regularly by a healthcare provider. Make sure he gets his vaccines at the right time and discuss your child's development and next steps with your caregiver.
Create links in your community . Familiarize yourself with the services and programs offered in your neighborhood. In many municipalities, agencies and centers provide services for young families. You can also meet other parents in playgroups or drop-in centers, or find professionals who will answer your questions. If you do not know where to go, contact the community center, library, public health unit or family resource center nearest you.
Choose a quality daycare center. When you have to separate from your baby, be sure to give it to someone who will take care of it as well as you. Choose a trusted person who will meet your baby's emotional needs and provide a safe and healthy environment for learning and growth.
Ask for help if needed. If you feel stressed, overwhelmed, depressed or need support to take care of your baby, do not hesitate to ask for help. Talk to your health care provider or family member, or contact a local community agency.
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