Preschooler Brain Development
As scientists learn more about how the human brain develops, many of our ideas about the brain are being challenged. We are learning that some old ideas actually were myths that are being replaced with new facts and understanding. Consider the following examples:
Brain Development - Myth or Fact?
Myth At birth the brain is fully developed, just like one's heart or stomach.
Fact - Most of the brain's cells are formed before birth, but most of the connections among cells are made during infancy and early childhood.
Myth The brain's development depends entirely on the genes with which you are born.
Fact - Early experience and interaction with the environment are most critical in a child's brain development.
Myth A toddler's brain is less active than the brain of a college student.
Fact - A 3-year-old toddler's brain is twice as active as an adult's brain.
Myth Talking to a baby is not important because he or she can't understand what you are saying.
Fact - Talking to young children establishes foundations for learning language during early critical periods when learning is easiest for a child.
Myth Children need special help and specific educational toys to develop their brainpower.
Fact - What children need most is loving care and new experiences, not special attention or costly toys. Talking, singing, playing and reading are some of the key activities that build a child's brain.
Contact us today to discover how our program helps develop preschool children.
REF: Understanding Brain Development in Young Children
FS-609, APRIL 2005
Sean Brotherson, Family Science Specialist, NDSU Extension Service