Ten activities to unlock your infant's GENIUS POTENTIAL

Parents should avail every opportunity for children to develop strength, stamina, flexibility, social and cognitive skills before age five-six. Here are ten activities that provide early stimulation to infants, preparing the ground for their optimal physical and cognitive growth

- RAGHAV HIMARSINGKA

The first years of a child's life represent a critical period when foundational neural networks are formed, setting the course for future development. According to latest neuroscience research, 85 percent of a child's cumulative brain development occurs before six years of age, highlighting the importance of providing appropriate care and brain stimulation in the early years. Therefore, parents should avail every opportunity for children to develop strength, stamina, flexibility, social and cognitive skills until age five-six. Here are ten activities that provide early stimulation to infants, preparing the ground for their optimal physical and cognitive growth:

1. Establish routines. Routines provide infants with a comforting sense of predictability, safety and security. Regular sleep, feeding, and play routines enable their physical and emotional development.

Tip. Start a calming bedtime routine at the same time every night to tune your baby's internal clock. A calm and soothing environment signals to her that it's time to wind down.

2. Use stories to enhance vocabulary. Stories are not mere entertainment; they are gateways to learning, introducing new vocabulary and enabling language development. Storytelling also stimulates children's imagination and prompts creative thinking.

Tip.