Importance of Positive Experiences
Experiences in the earliest years of a child’s life are extremely important. These experiences can change the production of proteins in our brains and bodies by leaving marks on our DNA. And, since people’s unique experiences can alter their DNA, their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren may be affected as a result. Healthy brain architecture is built on a foundation of positive experiences. Here are just a few examples of positive experiences:
Enough sleep—Sleep promotes better learning, attention skills, and concentration. In addition, consolidation of new memories and skills occurs during sleep.
Healthy food choices—Eating nutritious foods keeps brains cells healthy and their synapses strong.
Enough exercise—Exercise increases attention and cognitive control, and also reduces stress.
Enough play—Play helps children socialize, improve language skills, and increases brain size, although the true number of benefits is too numerous to mention)
Enough face to face interaction—Serve and return interactions develop cognitive abilities and help children learn how others think and feel. These interactions also strengthen crucial bonds with caregivers.
Exposure to cultural opportunities—Check out museums, libraries, and other programs in your city. There are often free events that target children and families.
Positive emotions—People who smile more frequently live longer on average, have lower blood pressure, more endorphins, and fewer stress hormones.
Mindfulness—Mindfulness promotes academic performance, strengthens concentration, improves impulse control, and supports readiness to learn.
Nurturing Touch—Touch reduces stress, enhances relationships, and stimulates brain development.
Children’s early experiences – the bonds they form with their parents and their first learning experiences – deeply affect their future physical, cognitive, emotional and social development.
Optimizing the early years of children’s lives is the best investment we can make as a society in ensuring their future success.
For more information on the importance of positive experiences during childhood development consider enrolling for the Building Brains Together Parent Education Series.
https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/what-we-know/brain-architecture
http://www.urbanchildinstitute.org/articles/features/positive-early-experiences-pay-off-for-lifetime