Great start in life
The critical building blocks for life a laid down in the womb and in the first year after birth
The physical, mental and even emotional capabilities of children are influenced by what happens in the womb. Newborns can even recognise their native tongue when they are born ! Healthy habits, including staying away from cigarettes, drugs and alcohol are important as is getting regular ante-natal care. Stress can also impact baby and it’s important that everyone feels secure at home. Pregnancy is a great time to learn more about how kids grow and develop and the simple things that make a big difference – like lots of kind talking, singing, reading and nurturing.
After birth the brain grows incredibly rapidly through to about 18 months of age. In fact the brain grows more in the first year after birth than it does from Age 1 to adulthood. It’s important that this period of brain growth goes well, because it’s laying down the neural foundations upon which you depend throughout life. Luckily it doesn’t take much to grow babies brains well – good nutrition, safety and a strong bond of attachment between bub and caregiver are the magic ingredients – and all the love, attention, games, talking, singing and reading that go with them.