While it may seem that a baby’s brain activity would be relatively simple compared to an adult’s, in fact a baby’s brain is twice as active as an adult’s. Hundreds of new neural connections form every second as babies learn from the people and experiences around them!
More and more, behavioral researchers are discovering how much environment plays a role in shaping a baby’s life and ways parents can support early brain development.
Tips to build a positive environment for your baby in your home and in your community
If you’re pregnant, prioritize prenatal care. Since brain development begins in the womb, good prenatal care can help ensure the healthy development of your child’s brain. Start prenatal care early, see a doctor regularly and follow their recommendations. Eat a balanced, healthy diet, take prenatal vitamins and avoid recreational drugs, including alcohol, marijuana and tobacco.
Try to create a "village" around you. Since it’s hard to raise a child on your own, seek support from your family, friends and community. Talk to your pediatrician about parent support groups and activities.
Interact with your child as much as possible. Talk with your child, read, listen to music, draw pictures and play together. These kinds of activities allow you to spend time focused on your child’s thoughts and interests, making your child feel special and important. You also can teach the language of communication that your child will use to form healthy relationships over a lifetime.
Feed your baby when they show signs of hunger, and do not overfeed them.
Give your child plenty of love and attention. A warm and loving environment helps children feel safe, competent and cared for, and it allows them to develop concern for others. Such attention cannot spoil a child.
Provide consistent routines. Be sure you and other care providers are working with the same routines. Also, be sure your own guidelines are consistent while taking into account your child’s growing competency. Consistency helps children feel confident about what to expect from their environment.
Understanding your newborn's states of consciousness
Newborns move through different states of consciousness throughout the day. Learning to recognize these states can help you understand your baby's cues and respond to their needs.
The "quiet alert state," for example, is often an ideal time to interact with your baby. During this state, babies are awake, calm and attentive. They are more likely to focus on faces, listen to voices and engage with the people around them. Talking, singing, reading and making eye contact during these moments can support early brain and language development while strengthening your bond with your baby.
States of consciousness in newborns
State 1 | Deep Sleep | Lies quietly without moving |
State 2 | Light Sleep | Moves while sleeping; startles at noises |
State 3 | Drowsiness | Eyes start to close; may doze |
State 4 | Quiet Alert | Eyes open wide, face is bright; body is quiet |
State 5 | Active Alert | Face and body move actively |
State 6 | Crying | Cries, perhaps screams; body moves in very disorganized ways |