Cognitive Development in Youngest Years
Ever since birth, children start developing their brain convolutions. Cognitive development represents a form of brain training in children that uses intense mental exercises which work on the brain’s core cognitive skills. These skills include the ability to read, learn, remember or think. As parents, it is your duty to help your children develop in an appropriate manner using suitable methods. Of course, every age group requires a different approach, and that is why you should know how to aid your child, depending on their age:
Children Up To 6 Months
While your child is still quite young, no older than half a year, he deserves special attention. This is the time where his reflexes become expressed. This period is commonly called the sensory motor period and it is the first cognitive development stage. Here, he will also experience primary circular reactions, mostly visible in opening and closing his fingers. Although this process will happen quite naturally, it is a good idea to encourage his development by playing certain games like copy cat or tickle songs that can help with your baby’s visual and memory skills.
1-2 Year Old Children
The second cognitive development stage or the preoperational period begins when your baby grows a bit older. Here your baby is learning his first words, exploring the world around him, he will start thinking more logically and take his first steps. This is the time where you start introducing certain toys like blocks, coloring books, musical toys and other educational methods that will help him improve both logical and creative sides of the brain.
3-4 Year Old Children
As your child is much older now and can be referred to as a toddler, perhaps it is time to step up the game a bit. This is another development milestone and your child is ready for some advanced methods of learning. Keeping in mind that children nowadays grow up with technology, it is not a bad idea to implement computers in their development process. They are now old enough for some entertaining funbrain games that can greatly contribute to their cognitive development through various educational and interactive games, online books and comics. This is a great way to let your children indulge in a fun and safe experience that will guarantee good results. This is also a period where you should encourage your child to take part in some outdoor activities and practice his motor skills as well.
Children learn best by exploring their surroundings, relying on their basic senses. But a role of a parent is to direct their children towards the right direction, enable them access to certain learning tools and allow them to learn through various methods of play. This is the only safe way to make sure that your children will properly develop their cognitive functions and grow up healthy and smart. So make sure to nurture your children from the first day and aid them in their development.
