Beyond genetic factors, a child's brain development is also influenced by nutrition, sleep, living environment, and parental care. The following are common mistakes parents should avoid to support children's brain development.

Allowing children to lack sleep

According to Times of India, sleep is a period when the brain processes information and consolidates memories. During sleep, connections between nerve cells are strengthened, helping children retain what they have learned and develop cognitive abilities.

If children consistently get insufficient sleep or go to bed too late, their brains will not have enough time to recover. Children become easily tired, experience reduced concentration, poor memory, and difficulty absorbing knowledge.

Inadequate nutrient intake

If children eat too little, are picky eaters, or have an undiversified diet, their brains do not receive enough essential nutrients. Omega-3, iron, iodine, zinc, choline, protein, vitamin B12, and D all play crucial roles in nervous system development. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to reduced concentration, memory, and learning ability in children.

Parents should establish a balanced diet for children, including fish, eggs, lean meat, milk, legumes, green vegetables, and fruits, rather than focusing on only a few foods.

Excessive use of electronic devices

Phones, tablets, or televisions can offer benefits when used appropriately. However, spending too much time in front of screens reduces time for physical activity, reading, communication, and play – activities crucial for brain development.

Children reading and studying can help develop their brains. Photo: Kim Uyen

Limited conversation and reading with children

A child's brain develops significantly through interaction with others. Regular conversations, storytelling, or reading with children by parents help them expand their vocabulary, develop language, and enhance memory and critical thinking skills. Conversely, if children have limited interaction or primarily engage with screens, they will have fewer opportunities to practice these skills.

Insufficient outdoor physical activity

Physical activity helps children stay healthy, increases blood and oxygen flow to the brain, and improves concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. Children playing outdoors are exposed to sunlight, allowing their bodies to synthesize vitamin D – an essential nutrient for bones and brain function, according to WebMD.

Neglecting children's mental health

Children who frequently experience stress, anxiety, or fear may struggle with learning. Prolonged stress increases the hormone cortisol, affecting brain regions associated with memory and learning ability. Parents should dedicate time to listen, encourage, and create a safe environment for children to confidently learn and explore.

Failing to encourage self-exploration in children

Parents who do everything for their children or always provide answers can foster dependence, limiting opportunities for children to develop critical thinking. Parents should encourage their children to ask questions, experiment, and find solutions to age-appropriate problems independently. The process of thinking, observing, and experiencing helps the brain form new connections, thereby developing cognitive abilities and learning capacity.

Le Nguyen (Compiled)