BRAIN FACT: Child Abuse Can Affect Children Throughout Life

Increasing amounts of research is demonstrating that childhood abuse can affect children throughout life. Due to the effect experiences play on the developing brain, studies reveal that the effects of maltreatment early in life lead to being more vulnerable to mental illness and behavior problems.

Dr. Bruce Perry offers information on the impact of relationships on the developing brain and how to help maltreated children here.

BRAIN FACT: The Brain Is Dependent On Having Visual Experiences

The brain is dependent on having visual experiences. A baby must have visual stimulation to create connections from the eyes to the visual areas of the brain.

This clip shows an example of the interest of an infant as a result of a visual experience.  

BRAIN FACT: Before Birth A Baby Learns Their Mother's Voice And Scent

Before birth a baby begins to learn the familiarity of the mother’s voice and her scent.  As a newborn the focus on learning from voices and smells intensifies.

BRAIN FACT: During Pre-natal Development A Baby's Brain Makes About 1.8 Million New Connections Each Second

During pre-natal development a baby's brain makes approximately 1.8 million new connections each second. The time before birth is not long enough to complete full development. Eighty five percent of the brain continues to develop by age 3.

BRAIN FACT: Babies Learn Language When Speech Is Specifically Directed Toward Them

Babies learn language when speech is specifically directed toward them. When an infant or toddler sees mouth movements, and facial expressions strong connections are made in the brain and language learning is enhanced.

A recent study reported findings related to verbal development.   Click here to read information on the study.

BRAIN FACT: It Is Essential That The Brain Gets Good Fats

It is essential that the brain gets good fats. The brain is 60% fat so it is critical that diets include the right kinds of fats. Fats create the myelin that insulates nerves. Myelin makes it possible for messages to be communicated throughout the brain and body effectively.

BRAIN FACT: The Quality of Relationships In the Early Months Determines The Way The Brain Is Wired

The quality of relationships in the early months of a child's life determines the way the brain is wired. The brain adapts very quickly to either negative or positive experiences. These experiences influence relationships and learning throughout life.

A recent report provides an example of the impact parenting techniques can have.  Click here to read more.