Child development is very important and most parents think it has to do with books, math and science. You can actually use stuffed animals and other toys.
In fact, for a child of young age, devices, TV shows, video games and lessons might be a little too much. At a young age the brain is busy forming connections of the things we take for granted like colors, smells, tastes, even sound and light. It is believed that the more an infant learns about these things, the better he or she will develop in the later stages and possibly can even have a higher IQ.
According to the Huffington Post there are quite a few ways in which you can aid and stimulate the mind of a child without using gadgets and special programs.
Stuffed animals are an ideal way to do it. They can help the children learn about colors, materials to the touch. At a little bigger age stuffies also help for the knowledge of animals and the development of imagination through games. Not to mention imaginary friends which are also helpful.
From ages 3 to 5 children can also benefit from construction-type playsets, modeling clay, drawing games. From ages 6 to 9 sports, educational problem-solving toys and games are also a good choice. Dance classes too, but only if the child shows interest in that. Never force your child to take lessons or trainings she or he doesn’t show a clear interest. You will just waste your money and the precious time of your child who should be learning something that is much more appealing.
While still a baby, hold your child frequently. Studies show that the more a baby is held and loved by the parent, the less likely is for the child to develop attention deficit problems later on.
Use more facial expressions when you communicate with your baby, as long as wordplay games, rhymes and songs. This aids the expressions of the child, the language skills and creativity.
Limit the computer time and replace it with age-appropriate stories and cultural events, plays, concerts. Travelling is also a great way to expand the horizons of a child. Try to communicate with your child at dinnertime about stories from the day, to help him or her learn to express their viewpoints.
As your child grows, you can change the way you talk to him or her, too. When the child is able to talk, start talking with more complex sentences. For example “I will be going to the grocery store to buy stakes for dinner”. Avoid simple-clause sentences like “Drink water”. The more complex sentences help children with their language skills without even realizing.
As you can see, such simple things can have a tremendous effect in the development of a child. And as always, stuffed animals are a great companion through this journey.
