Baby’s developing brain

Left and Right Brain – Don’t write this The human brain is divided into two hemispheres—the right brain and the left brain Research shows that each half functions differently

The two brain hemispheres work together, supporting each other and producing results that neither could attain on its own.

The human brain is the most functional and best organized three pounds of matter in the universe. The brain is part of the central nervous system. It controls many bodily functions: voluntary activities (such as, walking and speaking) and involuntary activities, (such as blinking and breathing).

We are born with over 100 billion brain cells. These cells connect through electrochemical structures. The connectors are called synapses. These architectural structures let us become who we are and will be. Most synapses generate after birth as a result of environmental stimuli. In other words, a baby’s brain is shaped and developed by the external environment. The synapses or connections __ rapidly increase during the first year. Synapses are not initially long lasting. Without continued and proper stimulation these connections (or synapses) will not become permanent.

Left-brain scholastic subjects focus on logical thinking, analysis, and accuracy. Right-brained subjects, on the other hand, focus on aesthetics, feeling, and creativity.

The Right Brain The right side of the brain is best at expressive and creative tasks. Some of the abilities that are popularly associated with the right side of the brain include: It controls the left side of your body. Recognizing faces Expressing emotions Music Reading emotions Color Images Intuition Creativity

The Left Brain The left-side of the brain is considered to be adept at tasks that involve logic, language and analytical thinking. The left-brain is often described as being better at: It controls the right side of your body Language Logic Critical thinking Numbers Reasoning

Between 10 and 18 months, a baby's emotional intelligence begins to be wired, and this emotional arousal is closely linked with long term memory. Particular situations are tied with emotional reactions and makes some memories long lasting. The more vivid the memory, the stronger is the imprint in the brain. Emotional responses can interfere with decision making. Children learn to trust if trust is nurtured, then it will become a part of the child's nature.

Neglect on the other hand during childhood could cause behavioral and learning problems later on in life. It has also been reported that prolonged exposure to severe stress can actually change the physiological development of a child's brain.

Nervous System and the Brain

Brain Development Conclusions (1) Brain changes throughout development both structurally and functionally (2) Developmental changes occur through and interaction of genes and experience.

Nature-Nurture Issue Nature – traits, abilities, and capabilities inherited from one’s parents Nature = Genetic Nurture – environmental influences that shape behavior Nurture = Environment

Bonding Forming Emotional ties between parents and child. Bonding helps a baby’s brain development. Simple bonding interactions such as holding, rocking, or singing to a baby help strengthen the development of the baby’s brain.

The areas of the brain that control emotions mature early in life and are very sensitive to a parent's feedback. Your patience, attention and understanding are key to helping your baby develop a healthy way to handle emotions. Holding and comforting your child when he cries, especially in the first year of life, go a long way toward helping him develop the ability to calm himself later on.

Four abilities that show their growing intellectual abilities: Remembering experiences First few months Making associations Understanding cause and effect One action causes another action Paying attention Bright babies have a short attention span.

Baby stimulation http://www.babycenter.ca/v1021434/baby-stimulation

Brain development http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCntBo7jlyQ

Questions What are some things that a parent can do to stimulate brain development? What types of toys should be provided to a baby?