Your child is born with more than 100 billion brain cells

At birth, some of the cells are already connected to other cells and these connections regulate the heartbeat and breathing, control reflexes, and other functions needed to survive. Ironically, much of the brain's wiring does not happen until after birth. Brain cells form connections in many parts of the brain in the first months and years of life. These connections are the complex circuits that shape thinking, feelings and behaviours.

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A child's brain is work in progress

In the past, some scientists thought the brain's development was determined genetically and brain growth followed a biologically predetermined path. Now we know that early experiences impact the development of the brain and influence the specific way in which the circuits (or pathways) of the brain become "wired" A child's brain is a work in progress. The outside world shapes its development through experiences that a child senses through vision, hearing, smell, touch and taste.

For example :

• The scent of the mother's skin (smell)
• The father's voice (hearing)
• Seeing a face or brightly coloured toy (vision)
• The gentle caress of a hand (touch)
• Drinking milk (taste)

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Early experiences guide brain development

Experiences that the five senses take in help build the connections that guide brain development. Early experiences have a decisive impact on the actual architecture of the brain.

Food and nutrition, daily experiences, physical activity and your love and response all have influence on early brain development. So make sure your child is well nourished with the right nutrition and your care and attention.

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