The importance of nurturing in early childhood development is essentially all about healthy brain development! Of course the subject of healthy brain development doesn't have to be as complicated as it may sound, and basically stipulates that children need a safe, secure and loving environment, with the right nutrition and stimulation from their parents and caregivers. This time period is a window of opportunity that can never repeat itself, and is crucial in order to lay a foundation of health and well being whose benefits not only last a lifetime but also carry into the next generation.
Early childhood development is of paramount importance in the development of a child's successful future. The years from birth to the age of five are the most critical time for a child's brain development since the brain is still rapidly developing, thus laying the foundations for lifelong learning, behavior, and health. While of course many developmental stages seem to happen on their own, most are a direct result of the child's exposure to the world around him, whatever that may be! So, the more the child is exposed to a variety of sights, sounds and social interactions, (like talking, singing and playing – with parents and caregivers who love them) within a safe and happy environment, the more his development will be enhanced. This article discusses the importance of early childhood development and its influence on things as specific as a child's future career path. Okay, lets take a closer look at this fascinating topic!
The Fast Brain Development in the Initial Years
A child's brain grows and develops enormously in the first years of life. Brain scientists have figured out that by the age of three, a child's brain has grown to 80% of the size of an adult. This developmental period is characterized by the establishment of neural connections, which are vital for the cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of the child.
The Primary Stages of Early Development
Early development encompasses many aspects that form the foundation for a child's growth and affect a child's future, and the stages are:
1. Development of Cognition
Cognitive development implies a child's ability to understand, reason, and generate solutions to problems. The early experiences in a child's life are the stepping stones to realizing cognitive function. They discover a sense of self, learn a language, and understand numbers, shapes, and colors. Successful completion of each cognitive age-related stage ultimately affect a child's performance in academics and creative thinking.
2. Social and Emotional Development
Early years are the most important time for the kids to learn social and emotional skills. Kids can recognize and manage feelings, connect with other kids, and even develop empathy through games and other activities. They acquire the basic behavioral skills, needed for coping with a lifetime of experiences, even before they can read!
3. Physical Development
Physical development is the progress of coordination and performance of motor skills. Children will learn coordination and strength as they learn to crawl, run, jump, and also handle objects. These basic motor skills are the very foundation for good health and well-being, and of course necessary for involvement in activities like sports later in life, not to mention trades that require dexterity.
An Introduction to Early Education and Stimulation
Studies reported that kids who attend good quality preschool education and are exposed to early stimulation perform better academically not only in school but even in life itself. Early learning activities teach children how to be curious, creative, and how to learn. Such experiences are:
• Reading and storytelling
• Play-based learning activities
• Exposure to music and art
• Outdoor exploration and physical activities
• Social interactions with peers and adults
The Consequence of Early Development on Future Success
The research has shown that the kids who receive the best early nurturing care and education are the ones that are most likely to:
• Perform well academically
• Graduate from high school and go to college or further studies
• Have job security and get paid with higher wages
• Be healthier
• Build better social skills and relationships
The Role of Creating Ideal Environments In Early Childhood Development
Creating a healthy foundation for early development is not an option, it is a must. This process includes not only the home environment but also quality preschool and any early childhood settings. Nurturing environments include those in which:
• Caregivers have warm relationships with the children
• Activities are in accordance with their age
• Rooms are safe and interesting
• Good nutrition and health care are consistent and key factors
Conclusion
Nothing compares to a child's initial stages of development. The experiences and opportunities that kids get within the first three years of their life are what lay down the framework for their success in later life. The investment in early childhood education and care, which is of excellent quality, can ensure that all youngsters head down a path to a successful future. Our diverse and modern childcare Orange services have been specifically designed with the best early childhood care in mind. The services provide nurturing environments for children to grow and thrive.