Topic: Brain Development

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CATEGORY: Early Brain Development

TAGS: #braindevelopment #first100days #parenttips

#interaction #brainyinsights #brainbuilding #brainactivities
#traumaandthebrain #importanceofrest #newborn #baby #toddler
#preschooler #serveandreturn #mythsaboutbraindevelopment

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CATEGORY As a parent, you have the power to help develop your baby’s brain in
OVERVIEW/OPENING amazing ways. Starting at birth, your baby is ready to learn, with
PARAGRAPH (provides a millions of neurons in the brain connecting every minute. Not only is
quick overview of the this an important brain-development time, but it’s also a time when
category & what to expect your baby is bonding with you and developing loving relationships.
from the content in the Here you will find more information about your young child’s brain
associated articles) development, bonding, and the important role you play!

Click here for a complete checklist of milestones for children:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/pdf/checklists/all_checklists.pdf

Click here for more information and videos of what brain development
looks like at each age: https://allaboutyoungchildren.org

PAGE ONE TITLE: Baby’s First 100 Days

AGE TAGS (specify age #Newborn #first100days #braindevelopment

range for all that apply):

VISUALS: (indicate Visual needed. Suggested: image of parent holding newborn baby
whether it is a photograph, and interacting (maybe at the hospital?)
infographic or illustration;
provide URL of image
location if available, or a
 Topic: Brain Development
2

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support this page; caption
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PAGE DETAIL: (provides The first 100 days of life are a critical time in a baby’s brain
a quick overview of the development. Learn more about what happens during those first days
value that the article is and what you can do to help your baby’s brain develop in amazing
about to give the reader - ways.
seen on category page
next to Article Title)

PROPOSED PAGE You have the power to shape your baby’s brain!
CONTENT:
The first 100 days of your baby’s life are considered a critical time for
brain development. Even if it doesn’t seem like your baby is doing
much at first, there’s a lot of brain growth going on. Babies are born
social and ready to learn – and the rapid brain development that
occurs during their earliest days and months stays with them for life. In
fact, research shows that brain engagement (talking, reading, and
singing to them) that occurs in these first 100 days can contribute to a
baby’s cognitive, social, and behavioral development.

You can improve your baby’s brain strength through simple, everyday
interactions. The time you spend with your newborn allows you to bond
with your child and helps with social-emotional development. Talking,
reading, and singing are all powerful (and free) ways to do this.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED “Babies develop relationships from the very beginning of life.” –
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR Beatrice Beebe, Ph.D., Clinical Professor of Psychology, Columbia
PARENT/EXPERT University
QUOTE OR VIDEO
“Babies can imitate expressions at ten minutes old.” – Beatrice Beebe,
Beatrice Beebe, Ph.D., Clinical Professor of Psychology, Columbia
University

REFERENCES: (if Beatrice Beebe talk/video: http://www.aei.org/events/decoding-the-

applicable, list any third- nonverbal-language-of-babies/
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit
if needed)

AUTHOR: (when First 5

applicable, may be a guest
 Topic: Brain Development
3

writer, expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What can I do with a newborn to promote brain growth?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
4

PAGE TWO TITLE: Child’s Brain Development (Newborn)

AGE TAGS (specify age #Newborn #first100days #braindevelopment

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Your newborn’s brain is developing with every activity. Yes,
quick overview of the value there is more going on than just eating and sleeping! Here are
that the article is about to some specific things to look for at this stage of development.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE You have the magic to help your baby’s brain grow! Your
CONTENT: baby’s brain began developing during pregnancy and has not
stopped. The first 100 days of a baby’s life are a critical period
for brain development. So, although a brain is built over time,
its primary foundations are developed very early in life. While
many factors influence brain development, your regular
interactions have the biggest impact – and they include talking,
reading, and singing.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Things to look for at this age…

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR ● Visually tracking an object eight inches away from face
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE (side-to-side, up-down, and in circles)
OR VIDEO ● Turning head or eyes to explore one or more things in
the environment
● Looking at things for three or more seconds
● Listening to different sounds (making an expression in
reaction to the sound, searching for the sound, etc.)
● Moving body or face to get something off of it
● Paying attention to own hands
● Shaking, squeezing, chewing, looking at, and reaching
for objects

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
 Topic: Brain Development
5

expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What should my baby be doing during the first three
question a consumer might months?
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
6

PAGE TWO TITLE: Child’s Brain Development (Baby)

AGE TAGS (specify age #Baby

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Your baby’s brain is developing with every interaction. As your
quick overview of the value baby grows out of the newborn phase, here are some specific
that the article is about to things you can look for at this next stage of development.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE You have the magic to help your baby’s brain grow! Your
CONTENT: baby’s brain began developing during pregnancy and has not
stopped. So, although a brain is built over time, its most
important foundations are developed very early in life. While
many factors influence brain development, your regular
interactions have the biggest impact – and they include talking,
reading, and singing.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Your child’s interest in the world is increasing at this age, with
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR beginning memory and imitation skills developing rapidly.
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE Things to look for at this age…
OR VIDEO ● More deliberate grasping and reaching for objects (food,
toys, etc.).
● Hitting or touching objects to get a response. Try toys
such as pop-up and rocking toys, as well as toys that
make noise, to watch your baby engage with them to
get a reaction via movement or sound.
● Turning, tearing, and flapping objects. This is your baby
exploring objects in different ways to learn about them
and how to discover new things.
● Looking for objects that are partially hidden or out of
sight. Cover a toy with a tissue or a towel and see what
your baby does.
● Visually tracking an object as it moves.
● Imitating simple sounds and actions. Say “da-da” or
bang an object on the table – see how your baby starts
to copy you. Keep the actions going and see how much
your baby can do.
● Can your baby stir food you are mixing in a bowl after
watching you do it? Can your baby scribble on a piece
of paper after seeing someone else coloring?
 Topic: Brain Development
7

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What does brain development look like for a baby?
question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
8

PAGE TWO TITLE: Child’s Brain Development (Toddler)

AGE TAGS (specify age #toddler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Between the ages of one and two, your toddler’s brain develops
quick overview of the value with every activity. Here are some specific things you can look
that the article is about to for at this stage of development.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE You can make the magic to help your toddler’s brain grow! Your
CONTENT: child’s brain began developing during pregnancy and has not
stopped. So, although a brain is built over time, its most
important foundations are developed very early in life. While
many factors influence brain development, your regular
interactions have the biggest impact – and they include talking,
reading, and singing.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED As a one- and two-year-old, your child is now starting to solve
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR problems by trying things and planning, understanding that
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE objects have functions, and anticipating things that are going to
OR VIDEO happen. Things to look for at this age:
● Trial-and-error problem solving. Your child may try to
put a certain shaped block in the wrong shaped hole on
a toy. Let them figure out where the shape fits.
● Using objects for the right purpose. Your child will
use a spoon to eat or put a baby doll to bed. Children
this age no longer simply explore toys and they can play
and use things as you do.
● Using their hands and other objects to reach for
things that are out of their immediate reach. Your
child may climb on furniture to try to get a toy.
● Looking for things that are hidden or that cannot be
seen. Your child will start to remember where things
were placed earlier and look for them.
● Imitating actions and sounds that are new. You may
even see children this age doing something they once
saw long after they first saw it.
By age two, toddlers are becoming more and more their own
person every day. Their vocabulary is growing and their ability
to connect things around them is developing rapidly. Things to
 Topic: Brain Development
9

look for at this age:

● Putting things together by size, shape, and/or color.
Your child can start to match similar objects and
images. Have your child sort toys by color or put all the
triangle blocks in one cup.
● Building blocks. Your child will use blocks to build and
copy things you build. Try having your child copy simple
block designs like a bridge or tower.
● Playing becomes more advanced. It includes multiple
steps/activities rather than one repeated act with a toy.
● Figuring out what’s missing. Your child can help you
know when things are missing, or when toys need to be
fixed.
● Knowing what “has more.” Your child will start to
recognize - and want - things that are bigger or have
more.
● Knowing body parts and naming objects. Watch as
your child’s language continues to grow.

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What should I be looking for in terms of what my toddler

question a consumer might does?
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
10

PAGE TWO TITLE: Child’s Brain Development (Preschooler)

AGE TAGS (specify age #preschooler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Your child’s brain develops with every activity. When children
quick overview of the value are preschool age (three to five years old), you can see them
that the article is about to learning and growing, not only with you but with others who
give the reader - seen on teach or interact with them. Here are some specific things to
category page next to Article look for at this stage of development.
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE You can make the magic to help your preschooler’s brain grow!
CONTENT: Your child’s brain began developing during pregnancy and has
not stopped. So, although a brain is built over time, its most
important foundations are developed very early in life. While
many factors influence brain development, your regular
interactions have the biggest impact – and they include talking,
reading, and singing.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Preschoolers are continuing to understand the world around

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR them – learning and doing new things all the time. It’s fun to
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE watch their brains grow! Things to look for at this age:
OR VIDEO ● Matching quantities and putting things in order.
Have your child put the nesting kitchen bowls in order
from largest to smallest, or put out a big fork and a small
fork at every seat at the dinner table.
● Sorting things by color, shape, and/or size. If your
child wants a challenge, have him or her put the blue
squares in one cup and the yellow circles in another.
● Explaining why things happen. Take the next step
from describing things you see and ask your child why
something happens or what will happen - when the wind
blows, what will happen with the leaves and why?
● Expanding play. Watch your child’s imagination grow
and get involved by including words and emotions to
narrate what you are playing or doing.

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)
 Topic: Brain Development
11

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What should I expect from my preschooler?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
12

PAGE THREE TITLE: Brain-Building Moments: The Importance of Talk. Read.

Sing.

AGE TAGS (specify age #Newborn

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a So what exactly do you do with your newborn? This page will
quick overview of the value tell you more about how to turn everyday moments into brain-
that the article is about to building moments.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Babies are born ready to learn. And you already have what
CONTENT: it takes to help them! First 5 California has partnered with
Vroom to provide you with over 1,000 fun and free tips and
activities to help add learning to mealtime, bath time, bedtime,
or any time! We know life gets busy, but with these fun
activities, all backed by science, you can turn everyday
moments into brain-building moments!

Try this activity to get you started:

DIAPER CHANGING TIME

Toes to Walk, Nose to Smell

While changing your newborn’s diaper, count her toes, and say:
“One little toe, two little toes…10 little toes to walk.”

You can also try it with different parts of her body:

“One little nose to smell, two little eyes to see… .” Watch how
she responds and mimic her sounds and faces back to her.

BRAINY BACKGROUND

When you touch and label the different parts of your child’s
body and what they do, you’re pointing out the connections
between the parts of the body and their amazing abilities.
You’re also sharing the communication skills of watching,
listening, and responding.
PAGE THREE TITLE: Brain Building Moments - the importance of Talk.
Read. Sing.
Topic: Brain Development
AGE TAGS (specify age #baby 13
range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a SoGetwhatgoingexactly can you

with Vroom to trydoover
with yourmore
1,000 babyactivities!
to
quick overview of the value promote brain development? Here you will learn
that the article is about to Visitabout
more Vroom.org
how toto learn
turn more or getmoments
everyday started today!
into
give the reader - seen on Download on
brain-building the Apple App Store
moments.
category page next to Android App on Google Play
Article Title) Sign up for Weekly Vroom tips via text message by
texting KID to 48258.*
PROPOSED PAGE Babies are born ready to learn. And you
CONTENT: already have what
*Text STOP it takes
to 48258 to help
to stop them!
receiving messages. For
First 5 California
Help, text HELP has
to partnered with us at
48258 or contact
Vroom to provide you with over Message
[email protected]. 1,000 funand data rates
and free tips and activities
may apply. See our privacy policyto help addat
learning to mealtime, bath time, bedtime,
www.vroom.org/privacy-policy. Neither VROOM nor
or the
anyparticipating
time! We know life gets
carriers busy, but
guarantee that messages will
with
bethese fun activities,
delivered. VROOM all maybacked by
discontinue the program at
science,
any time you can turn
without everyday moments
notice.
into brain-building moments!
OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Already in copy content
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE Try this activity to get you started:
OR VIDEO PLAYTIME
Toy Box
REFERENCES: (if https://www.vroom.org/
applicable, list any third- Save a few empty and safe containers – like egg
party links to validate a cartons or cereal boxes – and offer them to your
statement or provide credit if child. What does he do? Pick them up? Hit them
needed) together? Talk with your child about the objects:
their shapes, sizes, and colors.
AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5
may be a guest writer, BRAINY BACKGROUND
expert, etc.)
Empty food containers can be interesting and fun
TRENDING QUESTION (a toys. How do I interact
Exploring with your
them gives a newborn?
child a chance to
question a consumer might learn about sizes, shapes, and colors. This is how
ask to get to this page) they begin to develop early math concepts.

Get going with Vroom to try over 1,000 more

activities!

Visit Vroom.org to learn more or get

started today!
Download on the Apple App Store
Android App on Google Play
Sign up for Weekly Vroom tips via text
message by texting KID to 48258.*

*Text STOP to 48258 to stop receiving

messages. For Help, text HELP to 48258
or contact us at
 Topic: Brain Development
14

PAGE THREE TITLE: Brain-Building Moments: The Importance of Talk. Read.

Sing.

AGE TAGS (specify age #toddler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a So what exactly can you do with your toddler? Discover how to
quick overview of the value turn everyday moments into brain-building opportunities!
that the article is about to
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Babies are born ready to learn. And you already
CONTENT: have what it takes to help them!
First 5 California has partnered with Vroom to provide
you with over 1,000 fun and free tips and activities to
help add learning to mealtime, bath time, bedtime, or
any time! We know life gets busy, but with these fun
activities, all backed by science, you can turn everyday
moments into brain-building moments!

Try this activity to get you started:

BEDTIME
Today's Story

Cuddle up with your child at bedtime and tell a story about what
happened that day: “Today, you wore your orange shirt and we
saw a big, white dog during our walk outside.” Listen to what
your child says in response to your story with words or sounds
and add them to the story: “You said ‘ma, ma, ma’ today!”

BRAINY BACKGROUND

Telling “Today’s Story” at bedtime can become a soothing ritual

that also helps your child create memories about the day’s
experiences. This kind of routine can also help children build
positive feelings about themselves.
 Topic: Brain Development
15

Get going with Vroom to try more than 1,000 activities!

Visit Vroom.org to learn more or get started today!

Download on the Apple App Store
Android App on Google Play
Sign up for Weekly Vroom tips via text message by
texting KID to 48258.*

*Text STOP to 48258 to stop receiving messages. For

Help, text HELP to 48258 or contact us at
[email protected]. Message and data rates
may apply. See our privacy policy at
www.vroom.org/privacy-policy. Neither VROOM nor
the participating carriers guarantee that messages will
be delivered. VROOM may discontinue the program at
any time without notice.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Already in content copy

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE
OR VIDEO

REFERENCES: (if https://www.vroom.org/

applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a I’m a busy parent, so what’s an easy activity I can

question a consumer might incorporate into my everyday routine?
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
16

PAGE THREE TITLE: Brain-Building Moments: The Importance of Talk. Read.

Sing.

AGE TAGS (specify age #preschooler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a So what exactly can you do with your child to promote brain
quick overview of the value development? Discover how to turn everyday moments into
that the article is about to brain-building opportunities.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Kids are born ready to learn. And you already have
CONTENT: what it takes to help them!
First 5 California has partnered with Vroom to provide
you with more than 1,000 fun and free tips and
activities to help add learning to mealtime, bath time,
bedtime, or any time! We know life gets busy, but with
these fun activities, all backed by science, you can turn
everyday moments into brain-building opportunities!

Try this activity to get you started:

AT THE STORE
Shopping Stories

Going shopping? Make a shopping list and create a story

together about the items on the list to remember them: “Once
there was a dragon who … loved to eat carrots and slept on a
box of tissues.” At the store, encourage your child to retell the
story and hunt for each item, checking it off the list. Take turns
adding new items to the story.

BRAINY BACKGROUND
When you and your child make up stories together, you're
encouraging them to think creatively. When you ask them to
retell the story to find the items on the shopping list, you’re
strengthening their working memory in a fun way, while building
a skill that is important to learning.

Get going with Vroom to try over 1,000 more activities!

 Topic: Brain Development
17

Visit Vroom.org to learn more or get started today!

Download on the Apple App Store
Android App on Google Play
Sign up for Weekly Vroom tips via text message by
texting KID to 48258.*

*Text STOP to 48258 to stop receiving messages. For

Help, text HELP to 48258 or contact us at
[email protected]. Message and data rates
may apply. See our privacy policy at
www.vroom.org/privacy-policy. Neither VROOM nor
the participating carriers guarantee that messages will
be delivered. VROOM may discontinue the program at
any time without notice.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Already in content copy

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE
OR VIDEO

REFERENCES: (if https://www.vroom.org/

applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a What is an activity I can do every day with my preschooler?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
18

PAGE FOUR TITLE: Trauma and the Brain

AGE TAGS (specify age #newborn #baby #toddler #preschooler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Chronic stress and negative life experiences during childhood
quick overview of the value can have negative effects on a child’s brain development,
that the article is about to overall health, and well-being.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Children may face stressful, negative life experiences that
CONTENT: actually affect how their brains develop. Adverse Childhood
Experiences (ACEs) refer to specific, emotionally traumatic life
events, such as divorce, death, abuse, and neglect.

Experiencing stress at an early age, especially numerous

negative life events, can have a negative effect on children for
the rest of their lives. Stress has been found to change the
shape and size of an individual’s brain, as well as the
connections between brain cells. Stress can affect
development, behavior, and learning.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Developing strong emotional connections with your child can
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR help counter the effects of trauma or stress. Talking, reading,
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE and singing with your child are three simple yet powerful ways
OR VIDEO to connect!

REFERENCES: (if https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-last-best-cure/

applicable, list any third- 201508/7-ways-childhood-adversity-can-change-your-brain?
party links to validate a eml
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a Do stressful life situations really matter to a baby or young

question a consumer might child?
ask to get to this page)
Topic: Brain Development
19
 Topic: Brain Development
20

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE FIVE TITLE: Myths about Your Newborn’s Brain

AGE TAGS (specify age #Newborn

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Here we debunk common misunderstandings about

quick overview of the value newborns’ brains and brain development. Whether you’ve
that the article is about to heard them or considered them, read more to find out
give the reader - seen on the real truth.
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Your Newborn’s Brain: Common Myths Vs. the Real
CONTENT: Truth

New parents are often flooded with information about

how to raise their child, and it can become
overwhelming to try and keep the facts straight.
Luckily, when it comes to your baby’s brain
development, the steps are easy to remember – and
simple. All it takes is a little “brain exercise” by talking,
reading, and singing. Do these simple activities early
and often to help build connections in your baby’s
brain that will have positive and powerful effects on
your child’s life forever.

Here we debunk three common myths to help get your

baby on the right path for maximum brain
development.

Myth #1:
"My baby is only a few weeks old. I don’t need to talk
to her because she can’t understand me or talk back. I
feel silly having a one-sided conversation. I’ll wait until
she at least starts babbling."
The Truth:
Even though your tiny baby can’t respond to you
verbally just yet, she’s listening to every word you say,
and her brain is growing rapidly. Connections within
the brain, also called synapses, ultimately shape how
your child learns, thinks, and grows, and they start
forming at birth. So go ahead, start chatting about your
Topic: Brain Development
21

day, count those tiny toes, read a book, or sing a song.

The social-emotional connection you make when you
touch and bond with your baby helps your baby’s brain
grow. Your baby is doing more than listening; she’s
counting on you to help expand her already curious
mind.

Myth #2:
"Brain development is a genetic thing. I have no
control over my baby’s brain growth.”
The Truth:
Daily experiences and verbal engagement determine
how your baby’s brain cells will form and connect to
one another. When a baby doesn’t receive simple yet
important early experiences – like being spoken to,
read to, and sung to early and often – it can have a
negative effect on the development of connections in
the brain. In fact, studies show that babies who
experience more of these positive types of interactions
ultimately possess larger vocabularies, do better in
school, graduate from high school, and even have a
more successful future. The time you spend engaging
with your child also helps build the bond between you
two.

Myth #3:

"If you want a smart baby, you need to buy educational

toys and flash cards."
The Truth:
There’s no evidence that pricey “educational” toys
make a difference in brain development. In fact, they
can often overstimulate a child, which won’t make your
child any smarter. While it’s great to have a variety of
interesting, colorful playthings at home, the very best
“toys” for your baby are you and your voice. Talking,
reading, and singing to your baby are the most
effective activities you can do with your child. They
don’t cost a thing – and they don’t take up any space
in the toy box! Put your baby in a carrier or stroller and
take a walk. Point out squirrels, cars, and trees along
the way. Sort laundry by colors and make shapes out
of folding towels. Clang kitchen utensils together to
 Topic: Brain Development
22

make “music,” and sing a song as you set the table for
dinner. Simple, everyday moments like these are all
brain-building opportunities.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED SMART QUOTE:

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR Neurons in the brain connect by the billions within
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE the first 100 days of life when a newborn is engaged by a loving
OR VIDEO parent through talking, reading, and singing.

PARENT QUOTE:

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a Do I need to buy a lot of toys for my baby’s brain growth?
question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
23

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE FIVE TITLE: Myths about Your Child’s Brain

AGE TAGS (specify age #baby #toddler #preschooler #myths #braindevelopment

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Here we debunk common misunderstandings about

quick overview of the value children’s brain development. Whether you’ve heard or
that the article is about to thought about them, read more to find out the facts.
give the reader - seen on
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Your Child’s Brain: Common Myths Vs. the Real
CONTENT: Truth

New parents are often flooded with information about

how to raise their child, and it can become
overwhelming to try and keep the facts straight.
Luckily, when it comes to your child’s brain
development, the steps are easy to remember – and
simple. All it takes is a little “brain exercise” by talking,
reading, and singing. Do these simple activities early
and often to help build connections in your child’s brain
that will have a positive and powerful effects on your
child’s life forever.

Here we debunk four common myths to help get your

baby on the right path for maximum brain
development.

Myth #1:
"Playing is just for fun – it’s not learning."
The Truth:
Playing is learning – and adults are an important part
of the fun. When you set your baby down on a blanket
or mat for tummy time, get down to his level and play
together, one-on-one, face-to-face, by singing songs
and pointing out shapes and colors of objects in the
room. Young babies are fascinated by faces and are
actually watching you pronounce words through your
mouth movements. This prepares them for speech.
Make up songs about your day or about the objects in
Topic: Brain Development
24

the room.

Myth #2:
"Brain development is a genetic thing. I have no
control over my child’s brain growth.”
The Truth:
Daily experiences and verbal engagement determine
how your baby’s brain cells will form and connect to
one another. When a baby doesn’t receive simple yet
important early experiences – like being spoken to,
read to, and sung to early and often – it can have a
negative effect on the development of connections in
the brain. In fact, studies show that babies who
experience more of these types of positive, loving
adult-child interactions ultimately possess larger
vocabularies, do better in school, graduate from high
school, and even have a more successful future.

Myth #3:
"Real learning starts when my child begins preschool."
The Truth:
Even though preschool and kindergarten are
traditionally seen as the start of a child’s “formal”
education, you as a parent are your child’s most
important teacher. But luckily, you don’t need a lesson
plan to begin teaching your child. Every game of peek-
a-boo, as simple as it sounds, can be a learning
moment. Books are one of the most effective tools to
engage your child in learning, even from infancy.
Studies show that encouraging a child’s comments
and responses during story time can actually
accelerate a two-year-old’s language development by
up to nine months. So when you read, ask questions
like “Where is the bird?” and “What do you like on this
page?” to help further engage your child with the
reading. It makes it more fun for you too! Reading is
also a powerful bonding activity. When you read with
your child, it builds the social-emotional connection
between you two.

Myth #4:

"If you want a smart child, you need to buy educational

 Topic: Brain Development
25

toys, and flash cards."

The Truth:

There’s no evidence that pricey “educational” toys make a

difference in brain development. In fact, they can often
overstimulate a child, which won’t make your child any smarter.
While it’s great to have a variety of interesting, colorful
playthings at home, the very best “toys” for your baby are you
and your voice. Talking, reading, and singing to your child are
the most effective activities you can do with your child. They
don’t cost a thing – and they don’t take up any space in the toy
box! Put your child in a carrier or stroller and take a walk. Point
out squirrels, cars, and trees along the way. Sort laundry by
colors and make shapes out of folding towels. Clang kitchen
utensils together to make “music,” and sing a song as you set
the table for dinner. Everyday moments like these are brain-
building opportunities.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Quick Tip: When no longer a newborn, your child is busy
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR learning and engaging in lots of new activities. From sitting up
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE and smiling to crawling and babbling, there is so much fun to
OR VIDEO have with your child at each stage. And when you’re having fun
together, your child is learning and growing with every
interaction!

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a When does a child’s brain grow?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
26

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE SIX TITLE: Early Interactions: The Foundation for Brain Development

AGE TAGS (specify age #Newborn

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Even if those early “conversations” with your newborn may
quick overview of the value seem a little one-sided at first, you’re building your baby’s brain
that the article is about to by recognizing, acknowledging, and responding to her cues.
give the reader - seen on Learn more about these important back-and-forth interactions
category page next to Article between parent and newborn.
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Right from birth, you and your newborn are already beginning
CONTENT: to engage in back-and-forth interactions with one another.
Although simple, these interactions are not only important for
your baby’s brain development, but they help with relationship
building and bonding, too.

Your baby may initiate early interactions in several ways: by

making a face, turning her head, stretching her arm, or kicking
her legs. This is an opportunity for you to return the interaction
in a meaningful way – whether it’s copying her movements or
saying aloud what you believe he might be thinking. And while
they don’t seem significant, these back-and-forth interactions
are in fact stimulating your baby’s brain – and even reducing
her stress reactions!

For example, when your newborn makes a sad face or a

distressed sound, that’s her way of saying, “Do you recognize
I’m upset? Are you going to respond?” It’s important to respond
with empathy to let your child know that you care and are there
to help.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED QUICK TIP:

QUICK TIP CONTENT OR A game-like graphic where you see a “serve” example and
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE have to click it to have the corresponding “return” example pop
OR VIDEO up/appear?

How to engage in a back-and-forth interaction:

- Baby: Scrunches up his face.
Parent: Imitate him by scrunching up your face and saying,
 Topic: Brain Development
27

“Oh, you don’t like that. Let me help you.”

-Baby: Stretches arms out.
Parent: “Big stretches! You are growing so much.”
Baby: Turns head to the side.
Parent: “What do you see? Is there something there?”
Baby: Cries.
Parent: “You’re upset. Let’s figure out what you need together.
Do you need a fresh diaper? Are you hungry?”

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a How do I “talk” with my newborn?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
28

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE SIX TITLE: Early Interactions: The Foundation for Brain Development

AGE TAGS (specify age #baby

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Did you know that recognizing, acknowledging, and responding
quick overview of the value to your baby’s cues plays a big role in her brain development?
that the article is about to Learn more about these important back-and-forth interactions
give the reader - seen on between parent and baby.
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Right from birth, you and your baby are already beginning to
CONTENT: engage in back-and-forth interactions with one another.
Although simple, these interactions are not only important for
your baby’s brain development, but they help with relationship
building and bonding, too.

Your baby may initiate early interactions in several ways: by

making a face, turning her head, stretching her arm, or kicking
her legs. This is an opportunity for you to return the interaction
in a meaningful way – whether it’s copying his movements or
saying aloud what you believe he might be thinking. And while
they don’t seem significant, these back-and-forth interactions
are in fact stimulating your baby’s brain – and even reducing
her stress reactions!

For example, when your baby makes a sad face or a distressed

sound, that’s her way of saying, “Do you recognize I’m upset?
Are you going to respond?” It’s important to respond with
empathy to let your baby know that you care and are there to
help.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED A game-like graphic where you see a “serve” example and
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR have to click it to have the corresponding “return” example pop
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE up/appear?
OR VIDEO
How to engage in a back-and-forth interaction:
Baby: “Ba ba ba”.
Parent: Imitate his sounds and guess what your baby is trying
 Topic: Brain Development
29

to say. “Did you want your bottle?”

-Baby: Throws a toy.
Parent: You say, “You didn’t want that toy. How about this
one?”
Baby: Lifts arms up and then puts them down.
Parent: Copy the movement and say, “Up and down!”
Baby: Points to the sky.
Parent: “What do you see? Are you pointing to the birds in the
sky?”

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a How should I talk and interact with my baby when he doesn’t
question a consumer might even talk yet?
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
30

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE SIX TITLE: Early Interactions: The Foundation for Brain Development

AGE TAGS (specify age #toddler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Did you know that recognizing, acknowledging, and responding
quick overview of the value to your toddler’s cues plays a big role in her brain
that the article is about to development? Learn more about these important back-and-
give the reader - seen on forth interactions between parent and toddler.
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Right from birth, you and your child are already beginning to
CONTENT: engage in back-and-forth interactions with one another.
Although simple, these interactions are not only important for
your toddler’s brain development, but they help with
relationship building and bonding, too.

Your toddler may initiate early interactions in several ways: by

making sounds, pointing to people or objects, and bringing
things over to you, like a favorite book or toy. This is an
opportunity for you to return the interaction in a meaningful way
– whether it’s acknowledging that she’d like to read the book
she brought to you or saying aloud what you believe she might
be thinking. All of these simple, back-and-forth interactions are
stimulating your toddler’s brain – and even reducing her stress
reactions!

For example, when your toddler groans, covers his face, or

cries out in protest, that’s his way of saying, “Do you recognize
I’m upset? Are you going to respond?” It’s important to respond
with empathy to let your toddler know that you care and are
there to help.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED A game-like graphic where you see a “serve” example and
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR have to click it to have the corresponding “return” example pop
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE up/appear?
OR VIDEO
How to engage in a back-and-forth interaction:
Toddler: Walks to the window and bangs on it.
Parent: “That’s the window. What do you see outside?”
 Topic: Brain Development
31

Toddler: Waves.
Parent: “Good waving! We can say hello to the people walking
by.”
Toddler: Takes a toy car and pushes it.
Parent: Copy your toddler’s behavior and say, “Vroom, vroom!
The car is going to the store!”
Toddler: Bumps her head and looks at you.
Parent: “Ouch! You hit your head. Are you okay?”

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a How can I help my toddler’s brain grow?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
32

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE SIX TITLE: Early Interactions: The Foundation for Brain Development

AGE TAGS (specify age #preschooler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Did you know that recognizing, acknowledging, and responding
quick overview of the value to your preschooler’s cues plays a big role in her brain
that the article is about to development? Learn more about these important back-and-
give the reader - seen on forth interactions between parent and child.
category page next to Article
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE Right from birth, you and your child are already beginning to
CONTENT: engage in back-and-forth interactions with one another.
Although simple, these interactions are not only important for
your preschooler’s brain development, but they help with
relationship building and bonding, too.

Your preschooler is likely already initiating interactions in

several ways: by talking to you, asking you to play, and bringing
things over to you, like a favorite book or toy. This is an
opportunity for you to return the interaction in a meaningful way
– whether it’s reading the book she brought to you or asking
questions in response to something she shared with you. All of
these simple, back-and-forth interactions are stimulating your
preschooler’s brain – and even reducing her stress reactions!

For example, when your preschooler groans, covers his face,

or cries out in protest, that’s his way of saying, “Do you
recognize I’m upset? Are you going to respond?” It’s important
to respond with empathy to let your child know that you care
and are there to help.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED A game-like graphic where you see a “serve” example and
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR have to click it to have the corresponding “return” example pop
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE up/appear?
OR VIDEO
How to return a serve:
Child: Lifts his shirt and touches his tummy.
Parent: “That’s your tummy. Are you hungry or are you showing
me your bellybutton?”
 Topic: Brain Development
33

Child: Takes some crackers from the table.

Parent: Put one cracker in one hand and four in the other hand,
showing your child both hands. Say, “Which has more?”
Child: “Let’s go outside!”
Parent: “You want to go outside to play!” or “It’s not time to go
outside yet. Let’s finish lunch inside right now.”

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a How do I best talk and engage with my preschooler?

question a consumer might
ask to get to this page)
 Topic: Brain Development
34

Topic: Brain Development

PAGE SEVEN TITLE: Importance of Rest Time

AGE TAGS (specify age #newborn #baby #toddler #preschooler

range if necessary):

PAGE DETAIL: (provides a Growing brains need rest time to integrate and process
quick overview of the value everything learned throughout the day. That’s why the quality of
that the article is about to the time with your child is more important than the quantity.
give the reader - seen on Find out more about the positive effect of giving your child (and
category page next to Article you!) time to rest.
Title)

PROPOSED PAGE If you find yourself asking, “How do I know if I am doing

CONTENT: enough?” you are not alone! Being a parent can be challenging,
and even though you want to do everything you can for your
child, there is only so much time in the day. You both need time
to rest. The good news is that brain research shows this too.
Your child’s developing brain needs rest time to process
everything learned throughout the day. More is not always
better – the brain cannot process an overload of stimulation.
Quiet time, sleep, and independent play are all important for a
child’s brain development. So while you enjoy and enhance
those everyday brain-building activities with your child, be sure
to build in ample time for your child (and you!) to rest.

OPTIONAL - PROPOSED Quick tip: Resting is something children will learn to do as they
QUICK TIP CONTENT OR grow. You can try to model good “rest time” activities by
PARENT/EXPERT QUOTE reading a book, listening to music, or doing a calm hobby by
OR VIDEO yourself in front of your children. When they see you do it,
they’ll eventually want to do it too.

REFERENCES: (if
applicable, list any third-
party links to validate a
statement or provide credit if
needed)

AUTHOR: (when applicable, First 5

may be a guest writer,
expert, etc.)

TRENDING QUESTION (a Is too much stimulation a bad thing?

question a consumer might
 Topic: Brain Development
35

ask to get to this page)