We are in an age where there are a number of factors that stand in the way of smooth brain development in children – excessive screen time, adverse childhood experiences, and even poor parental practices, can often have a negative impact on brain growth and functions, which can lead to even bigger long-term consequences. As a parent, you have to take charge right from the onset to make sure that your ward reaches their full cognitive potential.
Research has shown that the greatest period of human brain development occurs during their first five years. This is a time when you should be very watchful of the environment you create and the things you offer your ward.
Firstly, ensure your ward gets a diet that supports their brain development. Prioritise meals that contain omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and folate. Meals like fish, eggs, and vegetables are essential for healthy brain development in this early phase. Also ensure you get personalised counsel on your child’s nutrition from the right sources. Seek guidance from a dietitian or pediatrician to learn what other foods you can introduce or take out to aid your child’s brain development.
Create a good sleep schedule for your ward. This helps to improve brain development especially in infants and young children. When you establish a bedtime routine, ensure you follow it through, even on weekends. Over time, your ward’s body will adjust to this schedule, and in the long run they will reap the benefits.
Foster a nurturing environment for your child’s brain development. Create a safe space that encourages them to communicate properly, ask questions, learn new things and even get the right amount of play time. You can aid your child’s brain development by helping them feel safe and secure to explore and develop. Show real interest in hearing what goes on in their minds, their emotions and feelings. These put you in a better position to develop cognitive function.
Pick the right extracurricular activities for your child. When you incorporate the right activities into your child’s daily routines and academic activities, you boost their brain development and overall well-being. Buy puzzles and board games like Chess, Monopoly and Scrabble – these games help push their minds, and develop problem-solving skills. You could also get them an instrument and enroll them in a class, or let them express themselves through arts and crafts. These activities help to enrich their minds, and keep them positively engaged.
More importantly, to boost your child’s brain development, focus on providing a nurturing environment, engaging in enriching activities, and ensuring they have access to healthy foods and plenty of sleep. Engage in everyday activities like playing, reading, and talking to your child, as well as creating a stimulating environment with age-appropriate toys and activities.
