Early childhood is the most crucial period of a child’s brain development, usually ranging from birth to around five years old. Since the child’s brain is void, it grows quickly and makes new connections every second.  Many scientists suggest that early learning has the capability of shaping a child’s ability to think, learn and interact with others.

So, understanding how young brains develop can help parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to support children in the best way possible. This article covers some crucial points on brain development and the benefits of early learning in a child’s abilities.

Understanding the connection between early learning and brain development

• A baby’s brain starts growing even before birth

Did you know that a baby’s brain starts to develop inside its mother’s womb? Well, by the time the child is born, they have around 100 billion brain cells. The brain cells, which are called neurons, are the messengers used to send and receive information from other body organs to the brain. However, these neurons need to interlink with one another to work effectively. The connection, which scientists call synapses, usually forms very quickly in the early childhood period. So the more a baby experiences the world with new things, the more the connections happen.

• Baby’s learn through their senses

The five major senses in human beings include touch, sight, sound, taste and smell. So babies learn through these senses quickly. For instance, if they hear their mother’s voice, see a shiny toy or feel a soft blanket, the brain forms new synapses. If they experience these connections repeatedly, learning becomes easier over time. This is why early learning encourages caregivers to talk, sing, read and play with young children frequently.

• Baby’s brain develops from positive interactions with parents and caregivers

Other studies have shown that babies who receive love, attention and positive interactions develop better thinking and social skills. So, when a parent talks to their kid softly, responds to their cries and engages them in play, they tend to build strong brain connections. On the contrary, children who lack proper care and attention may end up struggling with social skills and learning later in life. Such children tend to isolate themselves from others and do not talk too much. Thus, it is important to treat babies with love and attention to help their brains make strong synapses.

• A baby’s brain is shaped by their environment

The environment in which the child is can shape their brain development. For instance, a safe, healthy and stimulating environment supports brain growth. Simple activities like listening to music, exploring nature or playing with blocks can increase connections in brain cells making the brain develop quickly. Lastly, proper nutrition during early childhood is also important in a child’s brain development. The brain needs vital nutrients from healthy food to grow properly. Lack of proper nutrition in early childhood can slow a baby’s brain development and make them inactive most of the time.

Final thoughts

Early learning is more than just educating young children. It is the most important part of a child’s life where their brain is actively developing and experiencing new things. Early learning helps to increase synapses in a child’s brain by engaging in various activities like singing, talking, reading and playing. Parents, teachers and caregivers play a key role in shaping a child’s mind during early childhood. From this article, it is clear that understanding how young brains develop gives us a chance to help them in the best way possible. If you want to learn more, click on the link: https://perfectstart.com.au/childcare-crestmead/.