>> STIMULATION IN INFANCY

PROMOTES BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Ever since scientists discovered that rats raised in an enriched environment had larger brains than rats raised in an impoverished environment, researchers have encouraged parents and daycare providers to provide a stimulating and engaging environment for children. The first few years of life provide the best opportunity for a child’s environment to influence optimal brain development. At birth, a baby has between one billion and two billion neurons, or nerve cells. Although impressive in number, these neurons are a long way from working at full capacity. They need stimulation from the child’s environment to increase speed and connections between neurons.

This doesn’t mean that you should expose your infant to curriculum meant for an older child. But it does mean that an enriched environment — one that encourages safe exploration and new experiences — can give a boost to your child’s cognitive development. Babies are stimulated by your voice and touch, visits to the zoo and playgrounds, and toys that can be manipulated. Introduce him to colors, shapes, textures, sounds, books, balls, mobiles and games.

LEARNING COLORS Babies can discriminate colors very early if they are taught to do so. I used different-color balls and would roll them to the baby. I would say, “Here comes the red ball,” or ask “Where’s the green ball,” or “Roll the blue ball to Mommy.” Start with two very different colors, and then add more colors as your baby progresses. -- N.S., San Jose, Calif.