Experts say that 90% of a child’s brain is developed by the age of five, making this a crucial time to provide the best support possible.
Brain development of a child
Here are four neuroscience findings every parent should know to enhance their child’s brain development throughout early childhood, especially during the first five years:
1. REPETITIVE AND CONSTANT EXPERIENCES RAISE A SMART KID
Repetition and constant experiences help children practice and master a skill as it exhibits speed and advanced mental capabilities for his age.
- Encourage kids to do simple tasks, such as getting dressed, putting on shoes, brushing teeth, and washing their hands. Repetition and being intentional is key to helping them build confidence as they become smart and sharp.
- Let kids run around and allow them to be independent. It is important to foster kids’ growth and development with interactive fun experiences to give them a good foundation that allows them to be ahead of their game.
- The experiences and stimulation we provide our children set the stage for emotional and cognitive development. Let them speak up and express themselves so that they can become articulate. Parents may foster a child’s development with nature. Provide hands-on experience playing with toys, encouraging sensory development by seeing and touching things around them.
2. POSITIVE EXPERIENCES & RELATIONSHIPS BRING OUT THE BEST IN KIDS
According to a Harvard study, “Children who develop warm, positive relationships with their kindergarten teachers are more excited about learning, more positive about coming to school, more self-confident, and achieve more in class.”
- Positive experiences go a long way, so try to avoid stressful situations. Sometimes this is easier said than done, and sometimes meltdowns happen when little ones are frustrated, but you can help them to learn to calm themselves down when they are upset by making them feel safe and help them find a quiet space to regain composure. Sometimes, what starts as a stressful situation can turn into a positive experience in which a child can learn lessons that last a lifetime.
- Parents are not perfect. There comes a time when we will break or misstep an emotional connection with our child, but this can be transformed to become a positive experience for your child.
3. EXPERTS HIGHLIGHT THAT THE RIGHT NUTRITION IS CRUCIAL FOR BETTER BRAIN FUNCTION
During childhood, lack of nutrition can impact the learning process of a child and may result in them being less interested in learning.
A child’s brain makes more than one million neural connections every second. It is busy forming connections that allow brain cells to communicate with one another. The faster the connections happen, the better it is for the child for long-term brain growth and development.
Children need the right nutrients to help support the critical brain process. Without the right nutrition, this can also affect physical growth and maturation. It is even possible that they may not think properly if not given the right nutrition.
Hopefully, these neuroscience findings will help inform you and put you at ease regarding your child’s brain development throughout their early years. Remember: you are the best one suited for your child’s development to become advanced at his age. Your child’s brain is most flexible during the first five years, and it is the perfect time to invest in the best nutrition, education and activities to keep your child ahead.
Tips to support DHA brain development of your child
Here are some tips to ensure your child gets enough DHA for optimal brain development:
- Incorporate DHA-Rich Foods to your child’s diet like fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines in your child’s diet. Aim for 2-3 servings of fish per week, but be mindful of potential mercury content.
- Consider fish oil supplements. But consult with a pediatrician before starting any supplement regimen.
- Explore DHA fortified foods like eggs, milk, and baby formulas. Check labels to find these options.
- Include plant-based sources such as omega-3s, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Focus on a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.
- Monitor development of your child. Consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns about your child’s cognitive or developmental progress.
- Breastfeed your child but also ensure your own diet includes adequate DHA.
- Avoid excessive processed and sugary foods which can impact overall health and brain function.
- Stay informed about new research and dietary guidelines regarding DHA and brain health.
- If you have specific concerns about your child’s nutritional intake or brain development, consult a pediatric nutritionist or dietitian for personalized advice.
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About Promil Gold Four
PROMIL GOLD FOUR is Wyeth Nutrition’s first and only milk brand with breakthrough Alpha-Lipids. Alpha-Lipids is a unique ingredient scientifically shown to help speed-up brain connections by up to 100x faster through myelination – a critical process where brain connections are insulated so that messages are transmitted faster and more efficiently.
About Wyeth Nutrition
Wyeth Nutrition is a leading and trusted nutritionals company in the Philippines. Wyeth Nutrition has been nourishing Filipino families through high-quality, innovative and science-proven nutrition for children 3 years old and above, as well as pregnant and lactating mothers — Promil Four, Bonakid Pre-school, Promil Organic and Promama.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Wyeth Nutrition Philippines supports the WHO Code aiming to protect, promote and support breastfeeding.
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