Every movement, every new skill and every little achievement plays an important role in creating and strengthening the neural connections that form the foundation for future learning, coordination, communication and emotional development.
The brain develops through experience, repetition and opportunity. Every time a baby practises a movement, explores their surroundings or masters a new skill, neural pathways are activated and strengthened. These connections become the foundation for increasingly complex abilities.
Movement is also one of the most powerful ways babies learn about the world. Through movement, babies develop spatial awareness, balance, body awareness, visual perception, hand-eye coordination and the ability to understand how their bodies interact with their environment. These experiences stimulate different areas of the brain and help build the neural networks that support more advanced skills later in life.
Every roll, reach, push, pivot, crawl and step is an opportunity for the brain to grow, connect and develop. When we encourage freedom of movement, provide opportunities for floor time and tummy time, and allow babies to explore their environment, we are doing so much more than helping them reach their physical milestones. We are supporting the development of their brains.
Because ultimately, we aren't just raising babies who can move. We are nurturing developing brains. ❤
Join Dr Kate on her series – Movement Matters Mondays – as she will take you through your baby’s milestones, big and small. Learn what they should be doing, why it matters and how to help them develop all the skills they need to thrive!
