The first 1,000 days of a child’s life see the most rapid development. By your child’s 3rd birthday, their brain is 80% of its adult size! According to the http://first1000daysfl.org/, “The first 1,000 days of life, is a critical window for learning to see, talk, walk, and think… The quality of relationships and experiences during this critical period set either a sturdy or fragile foundation for all of the learning, health, and behavior that follows.” So, what can we do to take advantage of this amazing period in a child’s life? We can:

Talk, read, and sing to your child every day (for tips visit: http://1kdays.sachsdigital.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Tips-for-Families-Talk-Read-Sing.pdf)

Play, and

Support your child’s social and emotional development (for tips visit: http://1kdays.sachsdigital.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/feelings-families.pdf)

Watch this video about talking to your baby every day – right from the start: https://vimeo.com/360140082. Not sure what play activities can support your little’s one’s growing brain? Sign up to receive free activity ideas through Vroom: https://www.vroom.org/. They also have a free app that send just the right activity for your child’s age directly to your phone. Find out more by watching this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=32&v=WQNm4ASB7iY.

Is your child past the first 1,000 days? No worries, these strategies are supportive of your child’s growth and development throughout their childhood! Although the first 1,000 days are so critical to development, the brain has an amazing ability to change, grow, and adapt to new experiences; and, best all, these strategies build not only brain connections but also connections with you! You are the most important person in the life of your child and by spending time together and sharing in your child’s interests, you build a strong relationship and let your child know how important they are.