Supporting Healthy Brain Development
The early years are a critical time for a child’s brain development, forming connections that support learning, emotional regulation, and social skills. Supporting your child’s brain development doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are a few simple examples that you likely already do or can easily implement:
- Connect early and often
Talking, reading, singing, cuddling, and playing with your child are all crucial for development. Even small interactions like narrating what you’re doing or reading a book at bedtime can strengthen language, attention, and emotional skills.
Learn more about the importance of reading to children at https://childmind.org/article/why-is-it-important-to-read-to-your-child/
- Prioritize sleep and routines
Sleep is essential for brain growth and learning. A study from 2022 showed that children who had insufficient sleep (less than 9 hours) had more mental health and behavioral challenges, as well as impaired cognitive functions, when compared to those who got sufficient sleep.
Consistent routines around bedtime, meals, and daily activities help children feel safe and supported by allowing their brains to focus on growing and learning.
- Fuel growing bodies with healthy food
Balanced meals and snacks give children the energy and nutrients their brains need. A great way to make sure your child is getting a variety of nutrients is eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables every day. Getting your children involved in meal prep is another great way to get them excited to eat their healthy meals.
You can learn more about Nutrition and Brain Development at https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/community-cafe-foods-for-brain-health-development/
- Make time for play and movement
Play is how children learn best. Free play, outdoor time, movement, and imaginative games all help develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and emotional regulation.
Learn about Brain Growth, Pretend Play and the Outdoors at https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/brain-growth-pretend-play-outdoors/
- Limit screens and encourage real-world interaction
Children’s brains benefit most from hands-on experiences and face-to-face interaction. Whenever possible, choose play, conversation, and exploration instead of screen time.
Learn more about Encouraging a Play-based Childhood at https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/community-cafe-encouraging-a-play-based-childhood/
How your child plays, learns, speaks, acts, and moves offers important clues about your child’s development. If you have concerns about your child’s development and are looking for resources, go to https://www.southingtonearlychildhood.org/development-concerns/.
