The newborn brain is 25% of its adult size and by age 2, it is 75% of its adult

Question

The newborn brain is 25% of its adult size and by age 2, it is 75% of its adult size. The dramatic growth of the brain in the first few years is largely due to an increase in the connections between neurons. The infant brain is "always on," adapting and self-organizing, seeking opportunities for stimulation and learning in their busy new world. Several companies have produced educational media products designed to enhance brain development. By providing a highly stimulating media product, the hope of many parents is that it will lead to superior cognitive development.

Imagine for a moment that you or your partner just gave birth to your first child. Your partner would like to maximize environmental stimulation for your new baby and purchase some educational media products. Your budget is tight and you need to spend your money wisely. You sit down with your partner and discuss all the factors that should be considered before making a purchase.

1. Discuss at least 3 factors you think should be considered.

2. Make sure you discuss the importance of a stimulating (compared to impoverished) environment

3. Discuss the value of educational media.

4. Do you think there are there any good alternatives to media products?

Explanation / Answer

1. The basic three factors that are to be consifered are :

a. Non-commercial educational media content should be considered. High quality educational content would promote positivity, rather than those designed to prohibit access.

b. Products should be purchased by considering those that are clearly designed and marketed as educational and by reviewing the metrics of cognitive achievement.

c. To make a professional assessment of educational media products, a non-profit, independent review services should be considered.

3. Television has a negative impact on children. Exposure to violent content is associated with poorer cognitive developement and academic achievement. On the other hand, exposure to age-appropriate programs designed during the early years of infant development has a great postive impact in enhancement of cognitive ability and academic skills.

4. To find an effective approach that is alternative to media products is difficult. Although, traditional way of encouraging infants are available, but those have less abilities to improve cognition and may sometimes create negative impact on infant brain.

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