In today’s post, I want to talk about the role of a nurturing environment on a child’s cognitive development. And share some easy ways to create a positive environment for your child. When I am saying environment, it includes both physical as well as the emotional environment.

We know how crucial are the initial years of a child’s life for their growth and development. A child’s brain develops rapidly during the first three years. It is the time of rapid physical, emotional and cognitive development.

If you have been following my posts on #FeedIQ, an initiative by Abbott, by now you know how nutrition plays a crucial role in a baby’s optimal development. As per a research from Abbott, 3 key nutrients i.e. DHA, lutein and natural vitamin E are essential to support brain development and encourage early learning skills in infants. Mothers can take care of their nutritional needs by including a good supplement like SimMom IQ+ in their diet.

But nutrition is not the only factor which influences a baby’s cognitive development. A positive, stimulatory, as well as a nurturing environment, plays an equally important role. In one of my previous posts, I have shared some of the age-specific stimulation activities for babies.

A study by neuroscientist Audrey van der Meer shows that neurons in the brains of young children increase in both number & specialization when they are exposed to a positive and challenging environment.

But do we parents really care about the environment our babies are exposed to?

Do we really focus on providing a positive & stress-free home environment for our babies?

Brain imaging research suggests that growing up in a stressful environment causes the brain to develop differently. Even pregnancy stress and postpartum depression are found to have negative effects on a baby’s cognitive development.

It is the responsibility of parents & caretakers to consciously create a warm, caring, loving & sensory-rich environment around the babies.

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Let’s see some of the best ways to create a nurturing environment around babies to have a positive impact on their cognitive development.

1- Cut out the stress and be a happy parent

We all want to raise happy babies but are you a happy parent?

It doesn’t take much to drop out the stress from our lives and focus on being happy beings. Children absorb all the sights, sounds, smells, textures and emotions around them. They can sense even the slightest tension in the environment.

Babies communicate their needs & emotions through their behavior. And if you want to understand their behavior, you should look at their environment.

I have shared a post on Instagram on how to be a happy parent. Check it out –

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Create a happy & positive environment at home. How? .

👉 Smile more…Laugh often! . 👉 Eat at least 2 meals together as a family. . 👉 Don’t complicate things, keep your life as simple as possible. . 👉 Do some crazy stuff together. . 👉 Don’t shy away from showing love n care to your partner. Say ‘I love you’ more often. .👉 Keep an unlimited stock of kisses n hugs & use them for no particular reason. .👉 Never take your fight to a level that it becomes abusive. . 👉 Show your child that 2 individuals who love each other can also have a difference in opinion & things can be sorted out by talking without getting highly aggressive. . 👉 Take care of yourself, do something for yourself without feeling guilty. . 👉 Remember memories matter more than money. . 👉 Throw out negative thoughts & people out of your mind and your life

A post shared by Neha Sharma (@growing_with_nemit) on Nov 25, 2018 at 10:31pm PST

2- Create a positive nurturing environment at home

One of the best ways to create a positive nurturing environment for babies is by providing them with unconditional love and care. Even the simplest acts of cleaning & changing your baby, breastfeeding her, rocking her to sleep, soothing her, makes the environment nurturing.

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Also, be available for your child when you are present around them. Listen to their cues in understanding their behavior. Don’t neglect their cries because that is their way of communicating their needs. Allow your baby to spend time with each member of the family. And also encourage other people in the house to have a positive interaction with the baby. Try to adopt shared parenting as well as positive parenting approach.

3- Indoor/Outdoor Stimulatory activities

One of the best ways to help your baby achieve cognitive milestones is through stimulation. Play-based learning is the most fundamental in a child’s physical as well as intellectual development. It builds a range of skills that enable young minds to take risks, solve problems, imagine possibilities, negotiate, and much more.

Babies as young as a few days old are learning about their environment through their senses. Some of the fun indoor stimulation activities for babies are reading, giving a massage, playing peek-a-boo, talking, singing and responding to their coo’s.

Just like indoor activities, spending time outdoors is a great way for a baby’s physical and mental development. You can take your baby for a stroll, talk to her about the surroundings, show her the things around & let her explore the sights and sounds. Spending time outdoors also helps in a baby’s emotional as well as social development.

So, dear parents, these are some of the ways in which you can create a happy, healthy & nurturing environment around your babies to have a positive impact on their cognitive development.

Hope you find this post helpful and worth sharing. Do share your thoughts in the below comments section.

The post 3 Effective Ways to Create a Nurturing Environment for a Baby’s Cognition appeared first on Growing With Nemit.

Hi guys, today I want to take up another important topic related to babies i.e Cognitive Milestones in Early Childhood. 

In simple words, cognitive development is the brain’s ability to act and think. And cognitive milestones help keep a check on baby’s brain and intellectual development.

Just like any other new mom, I was also obsessed with the term ‘milestones’, when Nemit was a little baby. I used to keep a check on his physical growth every month and sometimes even every week since babies grow really fast.

For the first 30 days after birth, my complete focus was only on his physical growth. At that time I was not aware that there are cognitive milestones as well. And came to know about their importance only at a later stage.

At around 2 months, when a baby smiles for the first time, it is a growth milestone. And around 3-4 months, when the baby responds to our facial expressions with a smile, it is a cognitive milestone.

Keeping a track of cognitive milestones is as important as other developmental milestones.

Many parents are not aware of the different categories of developmental milestones. These are basically a bundle of physical, cognitive, social, emotional and communication milestones. And each one of these plays an equally important role in a child’s overall growth and development.

Physical milestones involve the development of gross and fine motor skills. Gross motor skills such as rolling over, crawling, sitting, standing and fine motor skills like mastering pincer grip, drawing, writing, eating etc.

With cognitive milestones, the focus is more on thinking, learning, exploring and problem-solving skills.

There are many ways in which a mother can assist her baby in achieving cognitive milestones. And further helping in infant cognition.

One of the best ways is through nutrition!

Source – Gooey Brains

You will be amazed to know that a baby’s cognitive development starts from the time of conception. And that is why during pregnancy, mothers are advised to take proper care of their health and nutrition intake. DHA and Natural Vitamin E are the most important brain-building nutrients responsible for baby’s cognitive development.

Many studies and research conducted by Abbott, reinforce nutrition’s impact on cognition.

Only a mother can provide these essential nutrients to the baby during pregnancy and later through breastfeeding.

I always say that each baby is unique and they achieve their milestones at their own pace. However, this is also true that parents play an important role in their baby’s growth and development. Cognitive development is directly influenced by the quality of time parents spent with their babies. Cognition is the most important part of a child’s development as it lays the foundation for lifelong progress.

Another best way to help your baby achieve cognitive milestones is through stimulation!

Source – www.essentialbaby.com

It’s important that parents provide the right environment and stimulation activities right from the birth. There are many benefits of stimulation for the development of baby’s thinking and intelligence, auditory and visual senses and also helps in improving their social and emotional skills.

To know more about the age-appropriate (0-2 years) stimulation activities check out this post here!

A baby’s brain doubles in size in the first year. And by the age of two, the brain has up to twice as many nerve connections as it will have in adulthood.

Babies are way smarter than we think. For the first 2 years after birth, they use their senses to learn about the world around them. They are constantly learning, thinking and exploring their surroundings. And working towards developing remarkable intellectual skills.

Hence, it becomes crucial for parents to keep a watch on their cognitive milestones. And take immediate action if they notice any red flags. As early intervention always help!

Check out the below chart for an age-wise list of cognitive milestones 

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I hope you find this post informative and helpful. Do share your experience with me related to developmental milestones in the comment below. And don’t forget to share this post!

Reference:

http://static.abbottnutrition.com/cms-prod/anhi.org/img/Cheatham.pdf

http://www.abbott.in/live-healthy/thrive/infant/boost-your-babys-development.html

https://anhi.org/education/course-catalog/B880EF2D92BB48A1AE80277F1B36C0C4

https://www.nap.edu/resource/19401/ProfKnowCompFINAL.pdf

https://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Article/2012/05/21/Abbott-Nutrition-Cognition-research-is-one-of-our-top-global-priorities

‘I am taking my Alexa rank to the next level with Blogchatter’

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Hey guys, I am back again with one of the least talked about topics ever i.e. Extended Breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful part of a mother-child relationship as it helps in making the bond even stronger. During World Breastfeeding Week (1st Aug – 7th Aug), we saw many big organizations talking about the benefits & importance of breastfeeding for both the baby and the mother. Breast milk is considered the first complete food for the baby. It does not just provide the nutrition for the baby’s growth but it also helps to keep the baby healthy by providing the necessary immunity.

Various researchers have even found a connection between breastfeeding and infant cognition. 

However, there is still a lack of knowledge and understanding among the new mothers regarding breastfeeding. And extended breastfeeding is not even considered by many due to some myths hanging onto it. Hence, today, I am going to share my experience with extended breastfeeding.

I am a mother and I have breastfed my son till 2.4 years and I can say that this journey was not at all easy. Just like any other part of motherhood & parenting, breastfeeding comes with its own set of hurdles. However, you all will agree that when it comes to our babies, we moms can do anything.

Extended breastfeeding means breastfeeding after the age of 12 or 24 months. 

Many of us are already aware that the WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for up to 6 months of age. But not many know that WHO also recommends continued/ extended breastfeeding along with complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. I was shocked to read that globally, only 40% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed.

I understand there could be many reasons for not being able to breastfeed exclusively. Whatever your situation is, just remember you are still doing the best for your baby. And you are not alone!

I also want to tell you that Breastfeeding has innumerable benefits for the baby as well as the mother. And even if you are struggling with this phase, just don’t give up yet. Give it one more try!

We, moms, are ready to do anything which is in the best interest of our babies. During pregnancy, I took very good care of my diet as advised by my doctor, even though I hated those superfoods. Since I knew that the right nutrition during pregnancy leads to improved health of the baby at birth.

As per a research from Abbott, 3 key nutrients i.e. DHA, lutein and natural vitamin E are essential to support brain development and encourage early learning skills in infants.

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid which is an essential nutrient for the baby’s nervous system. It works best in combination with lutein and natural vitamin E. Hence, it’s important to include these nutrients in diet during pregnancy. After birth, the baby receives these nutrients through breast milk, hence it’s even more important for mothers to take care of their diets and include foods rich in these essential brain-boosting nutrients.

This is how mothers FeedIQ to their babies even when they are in the womb and later through breastfeeding. 

Research has revealed that the nutritional needs of a mother increases during breastfeeding. And the diet alone may not provide all the essential nutrients for the mother as well as the baby. Hence, it becomes important to fulfill those needs by taking a good supplement rich in DHA, lutein, and Vit E. One such supplement is Simmom™IQ⁺ which is specialized nutrition offering IQ⁺ blend of brain nutrients for effective brain development of the growing baby.

In one of my previous posts on FeedIQ, I had also mentioned how 90% of brain development takes place by the age of 2 years. So, along with nutrition, stimulation and the role of parents also play an important role in the brain development of a child.

There are so many benefits of breastfeeding still not many mothers consider extended breastfeeding for their children. One big reason is support from the family and on a whole from society. In earlier times, breastfeeding a child till the age of 3 or 4 years was a norm in our culture.

Why I chose extended breastfeeding?

At first, I was not aware of the many benefits attached to extended breastfeeding. I was forced to continue feeding as I had no idea how to go about weaning. Breastfeeding a toddler is completely different as compared to feeding a baby. While I was thinking about ways to wean off, we adjusted to the new feeding schedule. Now the feeds were not that frequent and were of shorter duration. And I noticed that in fact, it was helping me and my son in many ways. It was easier for me to continue breastfeeding considering that I am a stay at home mom.

So, mommies if you are not able to feed your child after a certain age due to any reason, don’t feel bad about it. It is your decision and no one can force you. But, if you are considering extended breastfeeding and undue pressure from others is stopping you, do only what is best for you and your child.

1. Extended breastfeeding gives Comfort & Security – Everybody talks about toddler tantrums and their mood changes. Will you believe it if I say we rarely face tantrums. That’s true! My son knows that he can come to me whenever he feels confused or upset. When nothing works, breastfeeding comes to the rescue. Even during sickness, he would find comfort in breastfeeding.

2. Bonding – After one year, our feeding sessions reduced in number. And I would use those times to bond better with my son. A few minutes, 4-5 times a day we would spend just with each other. No distractions around. Those were actually the best times spent in peace.

3. Independence – The strong bonding helped him become independent. He’s not at all clingy.

4. Health benefits – Breastmilk changes as your toddler grows. Breastfeeding has been shown to support the child’s immune system antibodies even at the age of two and beyond. Breastfed kids are known to fall less sick and have a good IQ.

5. Helped me as a mother – Breastfeeding beyond the age of two helped me in many ways from emotional security to fighting stress. Nursing also lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. I feel more connected to my toddler & understand his needs better. I am happy that I decided to continue breastfeeding my toddler and provide him with brain-building, immune-boosting nutrients. It feels so satisfying. Thanks to the supplement I was taking.

Breastfeeding is a personal decision to be taken by the mother for her child. And no one has a right to interfere or pressurize her for her decision to breastfeed or not. Be well informed, only you know what is best for your child!

I hope you find this post informative and helpful in taking the most important decision of breastfeeding your child. Do spread the word, share this post! If you have any queries or doubt leave your comments below.

Reference –

www.prnewswire.com/news-releases

www.who.int

www.abbott.com

Featured Image Source – www.bubhub.com.au

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Hello everyone, hope you liked my previous post on play-based learning. Thank you so much for all the love and following our Summer Holidays Story Series on Instagram. Today, I want to share my pregnancy experience and learnings with you hence dedicating this post to all the lovely expecting parents out there. I know how it feels when you have a little human growing inside you. The feeling that you are the sole nurturer of a new life is marvelous. But then there are endless doubts and fears pertaining to baby’s growth and development. One thing I used to do when I was expecting a baby, was read and gather up all the information related to baby growth. You must be doing the same, right? However, many times it would leave me confused and then I would take help of my gynecologist to clear up my doubts.

I remember once during my initial routine check-up, I asked my doc about baby’s brain development in the womb. And I was astonished to know that the neural tube, from which the baby’s brain and spinal cord develop, is formed by the 4th week of conception. Isn’t this amazing? That time she told me how my nutrition intake directly boosts my baby’s brain development.

Our baby’s physical as well as mental growth solely depend on what we eat and how we take care of ourselves both pre and post-pregnancy. In one of my previous posts, I talked about FeedIQ and how mothers not just pass on the genes to the growing baby but also IQ through proper nutrition and stimulation exercises.

You may read that post HERE!

A baby’s brain development is based on the environment, genetics and nourishment she/he receives in utero and via breastfeeding. This is called FeedIQ.

I am sharing the 5 best tips my gynecologist gave me to ensure proper growth & development of my baby as well as for a healthy delivery.

5 tips to have a healthy, happy and smart baby

1) Eat Nutritious Diet

This is one advice we get from almost everyone. I had never cared about nutrition until I found I was expecting a baby. And suddenly I wanted to be mindful of what I eat for my baby’s optimal growth. On every visit to my doc, she would suggest adding a variety of food groups in my daily diet. Foods like green leafy vegetables, nuts, dairy products, legumes, and grains provide essential nutrients for baby’s brain development. So, if you want a smart and intelligent baby, you should take care of what you eat as you will be directly feeding IQ to your baby.

Source – simmom.in

Did you know that 70% of the brain growth occurs during fetal life

I tried best to follow her instructions but there were some foods like spinach and dairy products which I couldn’t eat due to strong aversion during my whole term. And that is why she wanted me to take additional supplements to support fetal development.

You may also read 5 essential nutrients for a baby’s brain development!

2) Take Supplements

My hemoglobin, vitamin D, and iron levels were already low and due to severe food aversions, I was not able to include some important food items in my diet. Hence, I was advised to take additional nutritional supplements. If you are not able to meet your recommended daily intake of nutrients, then it’s really important to take supplements to fulfill body’s requirement. There are many nutritional supplements available in the market. SimMom IQ is a specialized nutrition offering with IQ+ blend of brain nutrients and high-quality protein that helps in fetal brain development and healthy birthing. However, you should always consult your doctor before taking any nutritional supplement.

3) Stay Active

Many people take advantage of pregnancy and use it as an excuse to laze around, I was the same. I had become a couch potato and somedays would not even change my place for the whole day. It was during my 3rd-trimester scan when my doctor told me that baby’s weight was lagging even though I was gaining some good kilos. I realized the importance of being fit and active quite late. But as soon as I came to know about it, I was on my feet. I wanted my baby to be healthy.

The latest research has shown that exercise during pregnancy can increase neurons in your baby’s brain by 40%.

Our body releases some hormones during physical activity which are good for the baby. Working out not only helps in strengthening baby’s brain but also helps in improving your stamina which you will need during labor.

4) Talk to your baby

Source – Pinterest
(thebump.com)

I have heard many people say that it’s good to talk to your baby in the womb since babies can hear us. It’s true! In fact, talking to your baby plays a crucial role in his brain development. This is also a great way to bond with the baby. Whenever I used to talk to my baby, I would feel his movement. It felt as if he was responding to me. You can also read good books aloud during pregnancy. Talking, singing, and reading can help in your baby’s brain development. Sometimes, it may feel funny to talk to your tummy, but you will start loving that feeling too.

5) Say No to Alcohol & Smoking

It’s hard to stay away from alcohol in today’s social life, especially if you are a party animal. Similarly, cigarette smoking is linked to our highly stressful lifestyles. However, you should immediately stop smoking and drinking as these can have adverse effects on baby’s brain health. As per a study at Wayne State University, in Detroit, women who drank occasionally during pregnancy were 3 times as likely as non-drinkers to have a child diagnosed with behavioral problems.

Smoking can increase the risk of birth defects in babies.

The damage due to higher levels of alcohol in the fetal blood can be long-lasting and severe, ranging from mental retardation to heart damage. So, quit smoking and drinking during pregnancy to have a healthy baby.

We all wish to have healthy and smart babies however we ignore the importance of right lifestyle choices which could, in turn, help in boosting baby’s brain development. I hope you find these tips useful. Don’t forget to share the post with other expecting parents. And do leave a comment below so that I know you visited this blog. Thanks!

References:

www.nature.com

www.developinghumanbrain.org

www.simmom.in/feediq

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

All content here, including advice from the doctor, should be considered as opinion only. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in case of any questions related to your health.

This is a sponsored post, however, all opinions are mine.

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