Positive messages for parents to encourage early learning

Despite strong evidence of the importance of early brain development impacting future flourishing of children, public awareness remains low. All parents need access to support and information to help them give their children the best start to life. As Vroom says, “Everyone has what it takes to be a better brain-builder, regardless of background or economic status”

There is a caution, however. In our zeal to see caregivers providing stimulation (opportunities for early learning), we may be sending an unintentional message. It is easy to layer on guilt, or shame for parents around this topic. We can say something that is intended to be helpful, but come across being judgmental and focusing on what they are doing ‘wrong’. We should be focusing on the caregiver’s strengths and what is going right – not majoring on what is not happening. Show parents the benefit of what they are doing right and then build from there.

The key is to be affirming, encouraging and supportive. We don’t want parents to feel guilty, or shamed. Instead, to breathe life into their parenting and have a sense of “I’ve got this, I can do this, I want to do more.” This is why it is important to take care of the language we use with parents.

We have gathered some of these positive messages that can be used in conversation with caregivers. Further down we share some of the science that backs up the message.

Positive message to encourage parents

“You are your baby’s first teacher.”
“You are a brain builder even while your baby is in the womb.”
“Babies are born ready to learn. And you have what it takes to help them!”
“Your child loves to learn from you.”
“You don’t need expensive toys. All your baby needs to play is, you!”
“Your child’s brain grows the fastest from birth through age 5! Helping them learn now gets them ready for school, friends, and life.”
“The time you spend with your child can help their brain grow strong.”
“You can start doing this today – try something fun and playful with your baby.”
“You have got what it takes to be a brain-builder.”
“All your baby needs is you!”
“You are building your baby’s brain by lovingly responding to your child’s needs (or signals).”
“Your baby loves spending time with you and learning about the world around them.”
“Your little one enjoys spending time with you.” Spend time gazing into his or her eyes, taking in the smells, talking, cuddling, taking gentle walks all these interactions are growing your baby’s brain.
“You can start doing this today – try something fun and playful with your baby.”

Helpful facts supporting these messages

See more about the science of brain building on the Vroom website.

Baby’s brain is developing in the womb. At around week 7, the brain will grow at a rate of 250,000 neurons per minute for the next 21 weeks. You have a role to play in helping that development be healthy!

Did you know that you don’t need expensive toys or fancy gadgets to build brains. You don’t have to be a teacher or a psychologist. With some awareness, some ideas and some attention, you can give your child the right kind of stimulation to spark profound learning – with a lifelong impact!

Did you know that you are a brain builder? Babies are born ready to learn. Your baby’s brain is learning and growing right now. And you have what it takes to help them! You don’t need fancy toys or a lot of time to build your baby’s brain. Your baby loves spending time with you and learning all about the world around them.

Did you know that (Mom/dad) your relationship and loving bond baby is vitally important for the healthy development of a young child. Before baby can speak, the interaction between the parent and the child expressed through cuddling, eye contact, smiles, vocalization and gestures creates an emotional bond, that helps the child to understand the world around them and learn about people, relationships and language. These social interactions also stimulate brain development and help the child to feel loved, safe and secure.

Tips Every day activities improve young children’s ability to think, communicate, and connect with others. As soon as babies are born, they begin to acquire skills socially from other people – through smiling and eye contact, talking and singing, modelling and imitation, and even simple games like “wave bye-bye”.

At a later stage playing with everyday things like cups and pots helps children learn about objects and what to do with them. Reading books allows children to name things, as well as building curiosity, imagination, and knowledge.

Additional resources

This blog has been inspired by Vroom.org To learn more about how you can be a brain builder visit the website https://www.vroom.org/ or download the Vroom® App.

See this link to find out more about How to be a brain builder with Vroom.org https://sikunye.org.za/wp-content/uploads/How-to-be-a-brain-builder-with-vroom.pdf