Talk to children regularly
Experts advise parents to talk to their children often. Jill Stamm, an early brain development expert and author of the book “Bright From the Start,” said, “The brain is a pattern-seeking organ. The more it hears words from parents or those around them, the easier it becomes to learn language.” Tracy Crutchlow, the editor of “The Baby Brain Rules,” suggests that parents retell children what happened in their day.
Crutchlow said, “Our thoughts are constantly occurring throughout the day. And even though we usually don’t share every thought out loud, the consistent delivery of this stream of information can really help enhance a child’s brain.”
According to several studies, by the age of 3, children who are talked to more often have an IQ score that is 1.5 times higher than children who are not talked to. They also have better reading, spelling, and writing skills when they reach elementary school.
So how can parents of children sow the seeds for such strong language development? There are three key factors: the quantity of words, the diversity and complexity of words, and how parents use them. By narrating their child’s day, parents will naturally use all kinds of words. And by using words to describe things like a “red car” and “strong coffee,” that can be a perfect way to supplement a child’s vocabulary.
In addition to vocabulary, the tone and pronunciation of parents are also important. Tone is a great way to help a child’s brain learn language because each vowel produces a different sound. Tone helps infants separate sounds into categories and higher pitch ranges, making it easier for them to imitate. Stamm warns that nowadays parents tend to talk less if their child hasn’t started speaking yet. But don’t let the child’s silence stop you. Engage in conversation with your child even if they cannot speak yet, as it is one of the best ways to develop language skills for your child.
Raising a healthy child through delicious food
A healthy and intelligent child can be nurtured by providing a daily menu that is full of nutritious food during their development.
You should give your child fruits, foods related to milk, grains, starch, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs… In addition, do not allow your child to consume excessive amounts of oil, unhealthy fats, sugar, candy. Depending on the age of the child, you can give them porridge, weaning foods, or rice.
Communicate with children through facial expressions
Research shows that infants begin to recognize their parents’ faces when they are 3 or 4 months old, and it doesn’t stop there. At around 5 months old, babies can understand the emotions on the face of a stranger, and from 7 to 9 months old, babies can also read expressions on the faces of certain animals like dogs and monkeys.
Ross Flom, an associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, said that emotions are one of the first ways children communicate with us. And the ability to read expressions on faces is the foundation of powerful nonverbal communication skills, which help children form and foster team spirit, fight less, and have longer-lasting and stronger relationships as they grow up.
Tracy Crutchlow, the editor of the book “The Baby Brain Rules,” said that even though parents really can’t have too much time, pay attention to whether the child shows signs of excessive stimulation. She said, “The brain, especially the child’s brain, needs rest. Parents should try to pay attention to signs, such as the child crying or looking away. Don’t force the child too much. Instead, give the child a few minutes to process what they have just learned.”
Teach children healthy habits
One way to raise a healthy child is for parents to teach them good living habits so that they can take care of themselves when they grow up without their parents by their side. Parents should guide their children to maintain the habit of exercising, sleeping early, and getting enough sleep, which is not only good for mental health but also strengthens physical health.
With modern technology, children can be exposed to television, phones, iPads, the Internet, etc. Therefore, you should not allow children to use these electronic devices too early. The harmful effects of watching TV and blue light can cause many detrimental effects on children, such as affecting their brains, causing social isolation, and leading to obesity.
When teaching your child personal hygiene habits, you should buy products such as bath milk and shampoo with natural scents, without chemicals, to protect your child’s health.
Spend time studying with your child
In addition to teaching lessons from school, parents should teach their children life skills so that they grow up to be independent and successful. Children grow up accustomed to the protection of their parents and lack life skills can become shy and have difficulty succeeding in life.
You can learn more about teaching children independence by teaching them simple tasks such as dressing themselves, eating, using the toilet, and doing housework… You can also have your child participate in artistic or sports activities to make friends and overcome fears.
Teaching children life skills from an early age is also a way to raise healthy and intelligent children while still showing love and protecting them.