Until the age of three, the brain develops at an incredible rate. However, this development continues for many more years, maturing into adolescence.
The brain begins to form in the early stages of gestation. Then, after birth, brain development continues, especially during the early years of childhood. Is it possible to stimulate our children's brain development? Are there habits that can influence and strengthen it? We tell you more in this article.
Brain development of the child
The brain begins to form in the first two weeks of pregnancy. Later, towards the end of pregnancy, the cerebral cortex is formed. However, its development is not complete and will not be complete until after delivery.
Indeed, at birth, the baby's brain is still in the process of forming and maturing. It is only at the age of three years that it reaches nearly 80% of an adult's brain. Therefore, this is a stage where the brain is developing at an incredible rate. This is probably why we are unable to remember events prior to this age.
Thus, the early years of life are fundamental to brain development. Most of the essential structures develop :
- The visual cortex. At the age of six months, the baby can see almost like an adult (depth, focus, etc.).
- The cerebellum multiplies its size, allowing the development of motor activities.
- Myelination becomes faster. This allows messages to reach the brain more quickly.
- Neuronal growth. Many neuronal synapses are created, even more than those that will reach adulthood. This explains why children can learn more and faster than adults.
However, development does not stop at this age. On the contrary, it will continue to develop at a dizzying pace, and will continue to refine until adolescence.
Furthermore, brain development is an active and interactive process that takes shape as a child grows and learns. This is why certain biological, physical, but also environmental factors (parents, educators, lifestyle), come into play.
Habits that Influence a Child's Brain Development
1. Interact
When a child expresses himself or herself, whether by crying or babbling, and finds eye contact, hugging or oral response, neural connections are established or strengthened in the brain. These connections will help him or her develop communication and social skills in the future.
This is what the Child Development Center at Harvard University calls "serving and giving back". Indeed, scientists at this center argue that a relationship without interaction, in other words, without response, can even pose a serious danger to a child's development.
Therefore, for its correct development, the brain needs interaction in order to receive adequate stimulation. If there is no interaction, stress reactions will be more active, releasing hormones that can cause deficiencies in brain development.
2. Avoid toxic stress
According to Harvard University's Child Development Center, it is important to pay attention to how children learn to cope with adversities during their development.
When we feel threatened, it is normal for our bodies to respond with physical reactions such as increased heart rate and the release of hormones such as cortisol. In this sense, a child who finds a positive and protective environment during such times will learn to successfully regulate his stress. Even at the physiological level.
On the other hand, children who do not find calmness and support when they feel a threat, and their reaction is extreme or lasting, may even suffer damage to their brain structure, according to this center.
This is why we need to provide support and help the child to control and calm their reactions to toxic stress. To do this, it is fundamental to support them so that they can learn to transform them into normal and positive reactions. It is therefore essential that the little one benefits from stable support from his environment.
3. Physical exercise
Physical exercise is also a determining factor in brain development. Indeed, the brain is linked to general health. In this sense, some studies indicate that exercise during childhood can improve the cognitive functions of the youngest children.
But in addition, exercise also appears to be associated with a lower risk of childhood depression according to this study. Sport is therefore highly recommended for the prevention of mental disorders that could arise later on.
Thus, it should be noted that certain aerobic exercises such as cycling have a truly positive impact in hyperactive children or children suffering from attention disorders.
4. Love
The relationship that is established between the child and the caregiver is fundamental. It is of the utmost importance for the child's physical, emotional and intellectual development.
The child needs to feel protected, safe and cared for. He also needs a stable reference of support, dedication, responsibility and love. Therefore, adults must always be responsive and ready to respond.
Indeed, the indifferent attitude of parents or educators can be a cause of future mental disorders. For example, learning disabilities, anxiety, behavioural problems, etc., may be a cause of future mental health problems.
Finally, as you can see, the brain is constantly developing during childhood. Therefore, for healthy development, it is necessary that the child's interaction with his environment and caregivers be stimulating and active.
