It is natural that a child’s brain growth depends on several factors, the foremost being genetics. Brain development means the child has a high level of intelligence as well as advanced skills and cognitive and creative abilities. If the child’s surrounding environment from an early age is suitable, prepared, and encouraging, it’s natural to have a child with a rich vocabulary and communication skills that surpass peers.
The mother plays a key role in shaping her child’s abilities, but she may sometimes make mistakes that harm brain growth, even if she thinks these actions are normal or simple. Therefore, nadormagazine spoke exclusively with educational consultant Dr. Maha Abdul Latif, who pointed out 7 mistakes mothers commonly make that slow down their child’s brain development, including lack of communication, little talking and singing to the child, lack of physical affection, and more. Here are the details:
1. Weak Emotional Bonding with the Child Slows Brain Growth
Some mothers mistakenly believe newborns only need breastfeeding and neglect the importance of eye contact and emotional connection during feeding. They focus on satisfying the baby’s physical needs only and remain silent or emotionally distant during the feeding process, which can last up to half an hour. This weak emotional connection affects the formation and growth of the child’s brain later on, even though the mother thinks the child is too young to perceive emotions.
Make sure to give your child feelings and emotions and let them sense the emotional bond that did not break just because they left the womb. The child is used to hearing your heartbeat and recognizing your voice since the womb, so breastfeeding should involve talking, gently touching the baby’s face, patting the head and cheeks, touching the nose, and playing with their toes.
2. Not Establishing a Daily Routine Slows Brain Development
Children, even very young ones, love routines. For example, a newborn will get used to sleeping when covered with a certain blanket or following a certain sleep ritual; changing this routine may cause refusal to sleep. Gradually, the child will get used to specific times for playing and eating. Therefore, avoid a chaotic, unstructured day for your child, especially after six months, as routine plays a significant role in shaping the child’s cognitive development by helping them organize their thoughts and anticipate what comes next, enhancing intelligence.
3. Exposure to an Unstable Environment
If a child is exposed to a constantly unstable environment, their intelligence level is likely to be low. They may suffer speech problems like stuttering, delayed speech, or other issues such as bedwetting.
Family problems—such as marital conflicts, shouting, and loud noises—cause psychological instability early on. Research shows that infants living in unstable family atmospheres tend to have low weight, disrupted sleep, behavioral issues, and later academic delays.
4. Ignoring the Child’s Crying Harms Brain Development
Avoid following incorrect advice that recommends leaving a baby to cry for long periods to “strengthen” them or prevent future dependency. The truth is that the baby experiences its first psychological and emotional frustration when left crying without being held and comforted.
Ignoring a crying baby leads to feelings of abandonment because the baby expects the mother to respond with love and identify the cause of distress. Scientific studies have proven that leaving a newborn to cry alone for extended periods causes significant brain cell damage.
5. Poor Nutrition Causes Delayed Brain Growth
Ensure your child receives healthy, balanced nutrition. For at least the first six months, breastfeeding is essential because of its health, emotional, and psychological benefits that boost immunity and brain health. Studies link breastfeeding with better brain growth and intelligence.
After the first six months, gradually introduce nutrient-rich foods high in vitamins and minerals, as well as healthy proteins and fats. Maintaining this balanced nutrition continues to support brain development, especially during school years.
6. Not Taking the Child Outside Slows Brain Growth
One of the biggest mistakes is not taking the child out of the house regularly from an early age. Missing out on daily exposure to the outside environment limits the child’s independence and exploration, leading to developmental delays.
Overprotecting and constantly holding the child without allowing them to play on the ground or explore the world may result in slow skill development and social withdrawal. Interaction and communication are signs of healthy brain growth and opportunities to develop abilities effectively. Overprotection does not always benefit the child.
7. Exposing the Child to Screens Early on Destroys Brain Development
Another major mistake is placing young children in front of TV screens or tablets for long periods. Some mothers do this to stop their baby’s crying, but this damages brain cells and increases risks of behavioral disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, hyperactivity, and attention deficits.
Young children learn best through interaction, not passive repetition of images. Electronic screens cannot replace communication with the mother, talking, singing, and interactive play from birth and throughout the first year. These activities significantly enhance intelligence and brain efficiency.
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