When your baby is born, trillions of connections are made in his brain. The first year of your baby’s life is truly a window of opportunity during which early experiences can make a lifelong impact.

Your baby’s brain doubles in size in the first year and keeps growing to about 80 percent of adult size by age three, but here’s the thing: The rule for brain wiring is to use it or lose it.

In photo: Visual Stimulation Card in the Look With Me Play Box

To support your newborn’s growing brain, your baby needs:

Your attention

The simple act of responding to your crying baby will soothe and reassure them, which will allow their brain to focus on making positive connections.

A loving touch

Gently touching and cuddling your baby will lower his stress levels and enhance his feelings of well-being. Studies have shown that babies who are not often touched have brains that are smaller than normal for their age.

To hear your voice


Responding to your baby’s coos not only soothes them but also engages the areas of the brain responsible for understanding speech and producing language that need your input.

An early passion for books


Get your baby excited about books from birth by choosing books with large and colorful pictures. Enjoy reading out loud and bonding with them.

In photo: Wooden Book in the Look With Me Play Box

A routine

Babies thrive when they know what to expect. You don’t have to watch the clock all day long to follow a strict routine, but rather have a more predictable rhythm to your day. They might not look like they know the said routine, but their nervous system will.

Experience gentle movement


Playing games that require movement helps your baby experience the world around him and develop his gross motor skills, all while stretching out after 9 months in your womb. Gently push and pull their legs, raise their arms around, or simply hold them and dance gently.

Time outside


There are so many things for your baby to see, smell and hear when you’re out for a walk. Make the most of your daily walks by describing your experience.

Time with dad


Men play differently with babies than women. Women tend to be more gentle and cuddle with a baby, while men tend to pick babies up more or hold them out front when they walk with them. Babies benefit from both kinds of play.

In photo: Wooden Book in the Look With Me Play Box

NOT to have a room full of expensive toys


Your baby needs stimulation, and opportunities to hone their budding skills and simple household items and toys that will grow with your baby will provide enough stimulation and fun for years to come.

YOU!

The most important thing you can give your baby to help grow his brain is your relationship. Positive, loving relationships build healthy brains and protect your baby’s brain from the negative effects of stress. And without stress, your baby can explore and learn all about this wonderful new world.

Start the development journey with MonkiBox. Montessori-inspired toys designed to give your child the best start.