As children develop their exploratory, self-regulatory, and creative abilities, they often gain the capacity to remain calm in the face of challenges and identify the core of issues. This not only enhances their critical thinking skills but also equips them with essential tools for their learning journey.
Moreover, intellectual development profoundly influences children’s cognition and thinking patterns. Experts highlight two crucial types of “brain food” that contribute to the advancement of children’s intellectual and creative potential.
Exercise is considered one of the most effective and cost-efficient “brain boosters”
To understand the impact of exercise on the brain, scientists monitored a group of children who engaged in rhythmic physical activity three times a week, with each session lasting 30 minutes, for 12 weeks. Following this period, researchers observed significant improvements in the children’s creativity and practical skills.
These findings reinforce the idea that physical activity not only benefits overall health but also plays a pivotal role in brain development.
According to the book, “Exercise Changes Your Brain,” regular participation in physical activities strengthens the connections between brain cells and enhances the leadership capacity of the frontal lobe, an area often regarded as the “CEO” of the brain.
Additionally, exercise improves the connection between the prefrontal lobe and the cerebellum, thereby enhancing memory and focus. This highlights the intimate relationship between physical activity and the brain’s capacity for learning.
Notably, the period between the ages of 3 and 5 is when the parietal lobe, often referred to as the “movement brain,” develops most rapidly. During this stage, children begin to acquire planned motor skills and develop healthy habits. Early encouragement to participate in physical activities increases the likelihood of establishing a lifelong positive exercise habit.
Importantly, the cost of exercise is minimal. Parents can take their children outdoors to breathe fresh air, visit parks, go cycling or running, or engage in sports that their children enjoy.
Reading is a valuable investment in brainpower
In the movie “Gifted Hands,” based on a true story, there is a powerful scene that showcases the strength of knowledge.
On her first day of work, a black maid is tasked with cleaning the house of a millionaire. Upon seeing the vast collection of books in his living room, she asks him, “Have you read all these books?”
After receiving an affirmative response, she realizes the life-changing potential of knowledge. That very night, she decides to implement a study plan for her children, requiring them to read two books per week and write about their thoughts on what they’ve read by the week’s end.
The boy, who had previously been a low-performing student, diligently followed through with the plan. He eventually became one of the top students and went on to become a world-renowned neurosurgeon, making significant contributions to medicine.
Investing in reading offers tremendous advantages. To pave the way for your child’s future, mothers should establish a daily reading habit, emphasizing the re-reading of favorite books to foster cognitive development.
In the early years, storytelling not only stimulates the brain but also releases hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin, providing a sense of warmth and security for the child.
A love for books lays a solid foundation for a child’s life, empowering them as they face future challenges.
Additionally, while listening, a child’s brain silently absorbs pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, activating neural connections and forming a rich and multifaceted cognitive network.
Guide your child to develop independent reading skills, starting with books they find intriguing. Encourage them to explore various genres to enrich their knowledge base.
When children learn to transform the knowledge and experiences of others into their own through reading, they unlock the door to a brighter future.