MIT New Research: The Best Way to Develop Children's Brains is Not Reading

 MIT New Research: The Best Way to Develop Children's Brains is Not Reading

July 31, 2023

The wealth gap in families determines the gap in education, and in the past, children from poor families could study hard for ten years and still achieve academic excellence. However, this no longer applies. What is the reason behind this change?

Parents still believe that the reason for this situation is the difference in the books children read. To prove that this idea is incorrect, MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) has initiated a new study.

MIT's new research reveals that the best way to develop children's brains is not through reading. The disparity in children's vocabulary is due to their daily interactions with parents.

This means that a child's intelligence is not determined by poverty or wealth, nor by the educational background of the parents. Instead, it depends on whether they know how to stimulate their children's brains.

Here are four methods to promote children's brain development and enhance their intelligence:

1. Talking is the best method to promote a baby's brain development.

Traditionally, parents believed that reading is the best way to improve a child's vocabulary and stimulate brain development. However, the above-mentioned research proves that for quick brain and intelligence development, parents should engage in regular communication with their children.

Parents need not worry about the child's young age; even if the child does not understand the conversation, their brain will still be stimulated and develop rapidly.

(1) Indirect conversation

Parents can talk to their children like this, "What interesting things did you do at school today?" "What did you have for lunch at school today?" Children will quickly respond to such questions and be willing to talk about interesting events at school.

(2) Empathy

Many parents find it difficult to have a conversation with their children, and the child may ignore them. This is because they are not considering the child's feelings or showing empathy towards them. The best way to establish empathy is to talk about topics that interest the child, such as games or their hobbies.

2. Take children to observe nature.

Exposing children to the outside world helps them develop their thinking abilities. Children should not stay at home for extended periods, as it is not only detrimental to their brain development but also their overall well-being.

Occasionally taking children on trips or frequently visiting nearby parks can help stimulate their brains and promote brain development.

3. Cultivate a habit of loving sports.

Research has shown that children who walk to school tend to have stronger attention and perform better in exams. Similarly, elderly individuals who enjoy mild exercises have only half the risk of cognitive impairments compared to their peers.

This is because exercise increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of neurons and the release of neurotransmitters and growth hormones, which are crucial for brain development in children.

4. Less blame, more encouragement.

During the process of growing up, children need the encouragement and support of their parents. It is normal for young children to make mistakes, and parents should avoid excessive blame and instead offer more encouragement. Children who grow up with encouragement will have more confidence, which also promotes brain development.

Have you learned these four methods?