HOW TO STIMULATE YOUR BABY'S BRAIN DEVELOPMENT
Hi Mommies,
Today, I wanted to share 3 simple ways to stimulate your baby's brain in the early months of life! Research shows that babies whose parents are constantly stimulating them reach developmental milestones earlier and become independent sooner. (Source) Today I share with you 3 ways I stimulate my infant's brain daily.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Take heed to your infant's unique and individual needs. These activities should be done for brief periods of time, at points in the day that are appropriate. Try not to stimulate a baby too much near their nap/bed time.
1. Baby Stimulation Videos
I love to play these videos for my six month old. She loves to watch the high-contrast images dart, sway, and pop in and out of frame. The high-contrast colors make it easy for her to focus. Also, the music exposes her to the concept of pattern and rhythm early. I played these videos for my son Eilan at a few months of age. It's my opinion that these videos are fun and effective ways to stimulate your infant's brain.
WATCH OUR FAVORITE ONE HERE.
2. High Contrast Books
Reading to your infant is proven to help give your child a literacy boost. Aside from that, it teaches them how to interact. They get a chance to study your voice's pitch and intonation, your facial expressions, and your mannerisms. Bonding with baby is another benefit derived from reading a book.
When choosing books, go for the ones that have contrasting colors. High contrast books have been proven to stimulate a baby's brain development positively. My son absolutely loves story time because we started when he was a newborn. Over the course of time he has come to associate reading with cuddles, warmth, hugs, kisses and smiles. It's my hope that this association will keep him passionate about reading in the future. I am currently taking the same approach with my 6-month old baby girl.
3. Interaction/Playtime
Nothing beats quality, one-on-one time between mom/dad and baby. Your baby needs you more than anything else right now. What better way is there for them to be stimulated than interacting with you face-to-face? I love talking to my baby. I describe the things that are happening to her as I do them. For example, if I am changing her diaper I will tell her just that. I'll explain to her that I am changing her diaper, that I am grabbing a wipe and cleaning her up. I'll tell her it's time for a new diaper, etc.
Wearing your baby for some parts of the day also helps with stimulating their brain. It keeps them close and calm so they can take in their surroundings more confidently.
Find any opportunity to talk to your baby. I also like to give her baby massages after bath time, and lots of kisses and snuggles. Something she loves to do is look in the mirror. Try holding a mirror up in front of your baby and pointing out the different parts of their face while saying each part out loud.
So tell me, how are you mommies stimulating your baby's brain development??? Share in the comments section down below!