Aussie Childcare Network Forum

QUESTION 1 goes like this
Finding 2: Brain development is contingent on a complex interplay between genes and the environment.

My answer is probably way off if it is can you help please
We can provide children with lots of sensory-motor experiences, such as activities include striking, kicking, and catching. This can also include postural control, coordination of movements, crawling, creeping, body rolling, and jumping. In addition to stimulating the fundamental skills, moderate and vigorous intensity gross-motor activity provide the brain with its chief energy source, glucose. In essence, these activities increase blood flow, which
feeds the brain and enhances neuronal connectivity during the critical time.

Question 2 goes like this
Finding 3: Experience wires the brain. Repetition strengthens the wiring.

My answer which again is probably wrong please put me on the right path please
The primary task of the brain during early childhood is connecting brain cells and every neuron (nerve cells) sends information to other neurons dendrites (signal receiver) which receive information from the other cells. Axons (conduct nerve signals) hook up with dendrites. So everything we learn is stored in neurons. Experience forges the connections and repetition makes them stronger

Early brain development is contingent on a complex interplay between genes and the environment. We now have a new understanding of just how critical the role of the environment is in enhancing early brain development. The research has provided a plethora of information regarding environmental influences that can make a difference.

Scientific research based environments…
Provide for adequate rest and nutrition. Rest and nutrition influence brain function. Children need daily naps as well as restful sleep at night The brain uses sleep time to do its housekeeping and to reorganize itself. Children need diets rich in protein (meats, nuts, cheese), fatty 3 acids, and selenium and boron (leafy green vegetables).
Include a readily available source of water. Thirsty brains can’t think. The brain needs water for proper hydration.
Foster safety for every child. Children learn better in environments where they feel safe. If they must constantly be on guard against danger, they have little ability to focus on other things.
Utilize materials and equipment supported by research.
Provide adequate space for motor development, which is at its peak during the preschool years.
Include plants. Plants increase oxygen. The brain needs oxygen to stay alert.
Provide stimulation but don’t over stimulate. Too much stimulation, i.e., things hanging from the ceiling, walls covered from ceiling to floor and so forth, distracts children.
Require periodic examination to determine that they are in concert with what we are learning through the research.
Ref: Brain Research - It's Complications

Hope this helps,

,
Lorina