7 Parental Attitudes That Support Children's Brain Development

Illustration of the attitude of parents in supporting children's development (iStockphoto)

YOGYAKARTA – Affection is as important as nutrition in supporting children's brain development. When your baby needs adequate nutrition for physical development, cognitive and mental development needs to be supported through the affective attitude of parents.

Dona Matthews, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist and author on children, youth, and education, suggests involving children in food shopping, menu planning, and cooking. According to him, this is a way to help children enjoy the creative aspects of their diet.

In addition, here are ideas to support good 'nutrition' to support your child's brain development.

1. Giving love

Although scientifically love can be defined many versions, but love in action can be understood easily. It can even be implemented through simple attitudes and behaviors such as making sure the baby gets enough nutrition in every bite of the food they eat. Some families may be discouraged when under certain conditions the mother cannot breastfeed. But it's really not a big problem as long as you give enough love and affection, explains Matthews as reported by Psychology Today, Thursday, June 30.

Illustration of the attitude of parents in supporting children's development (iStockphoto)

2. Take good care of yourself

Life's challenges sometimes swoop in and it takes energy to get through them. But, suggests Matthews, making sure you're well looked after can help you share warmth with your little one. This is more important so that you can still take care of your baby or child in a certain way.

3. Prioritize nutrition over portions

Adequate and good nutrition is not equivalent to a portion. Sometimes, certain types of food do not contain many nutrients even though the portions are large. While nutritious food needs to be well known by parents. It is more important for your child's long-term development, considering healthy food choices.

4. Providing brain-healthy foods

Brain-healthy foods, also known as 'super foods', include eggs, fatty fish, whole grains, berries, nuts, colorful vegetables, milk, and other protein sources. Although the attitude of parents is important, isn't nutrition also the same intake needed in optimizing children's brain function, memory, and concentration?

5. Asking the children for help in preparing food

Most children will enjoy spending time in the kitchen. Even though it sometimes sparks a scolding for being messy, slow, and doesn't follow the instructions. But getting kids to prepare meals can make it hard for them to refuse healthy foods.

The activity of preparing food can also be used to hone basic skills, such as reading, math, and reasoning.

6. Making family mealtimes harmonious and friendly

When eating, it is necessary to create a harmonious and friendly atmosphere. But don't coerce, indulge, and coax them into getting food into their mouths, advises Matthews. Most importantly, focus on meal times. Try to steer in a positive direction and ask them what they like about the food. Teach also how to be grateful about the pleasures eaten and the warm family atmosphere.

7. Support children in choosing and deciding food

Sometimes children use food for entertainment, stimulation, anger management, or boredom relief. You don't have to worry about your child's attitude towards food, just support them in making good decisions.

Matthews advises that the best way to ensure children are eating well is to let them decide when, what and how much to eat.