Your Child's Brain
Your child's brain begins to grow in pregnancy and continues into early adulthood. Different parts of the brain grow at different ages. The most critical time of growth is the first 2000 days of your child's life. During this time, the brain makes 1 million new brain connections every second! A child's genes, their environment and experiences all work together to make these connections and build healthy brains. There are ways that you can help support the growth of a healthy brain, by:
- Building a secure and trusting relationship. What does this mean? It's like playing a "serve and return" game like tennis. If your baby babbles or is upset, respond in a positive comforting way by holding them and giving them a hug or kiss.
- Supporting your child's senses by allowing them to explore new sounds, foods and toys.
- Playing with your child, this is a powerful activity. It encourages exploration, teaches communication and problem solving.
- Responding and supporting your child during stressful situations. Protecting them from all stress is not possible and some stress is a normal part of child development. It can help build resiliency and self-regulation.
- Too much ongoing stress can affect a child's health especially when an adult close to them does not respond in a caring way.
Creating a nurturing environment is important. Allow them to have positive experiences in their life. This will set the stage for a healthy start in all parts of their life. Remember it is never too late!
To find more parenting information, please visit:
- Ottawa Child and Youth Initiative’s Information for Parents/Caregivers
- Infant and early childhood mental health
- Growth and development for babies and toddlers
- School readiness
To find resources for you and your family, please visit:
- Ottawa Public Health Info Centre at 613-PARENTS [613-727-3687] (TTY: 613-580-9656) or email ParentinginOttawa@ottawa.ca to speak to a Public Health Nurse.
- Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page to connect with a Public Health Nurse and other caregivers.
- Parenting in Ottawa services for caregivers and their families.
- Mental health, addictions and substance use resources and services for caregivers and their families.
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