<p style="text-align:center"><em><strong>&quot;A baby is born with a need to be loved and touched and it never outgrows it&quot;</strong></em></p>

<p>Touch is a fundamental sense of emotional and social associations. Babies need some touch effect to start bonding with their parents. Some studies reveal that skin-to-skin contact by parents and caregivers has an impact on brain development in babies. Let us peek into information about touch and its effect on brain development in babies.</p>

<p>From the moment they are born, babies are eager to explore the world around them, and their sense of touch is one of the most important tools they use to do so. Not only does touch help infants to feel safe and secure, but it also plays a critical role in shaping their brain development. Research has shown that touch plays a crucial role in the formation of neural connections in a baby&#39;s brain. As babies are touched, held, and nurtured, their brains release oxytocin, a hormone that helps to regulate stress and promote positive social interactions. This, in turn, leads to the development of more robust neural networks and a greater capacity for emotional regulation. </p>

<p>One of the most critical periods for touch-related brain development is the first two years of life. During this time, the neural pathways that are responsible for processing sensory information are rapidly developing, and touch plays a critical role in this process. Infants who are deprived of touch during this time may experience delays in the development of the brain regions responsible for processing sensory information, which can lead to long-term developmental problems. You can touch the baby throughout the day, but one of the touch that has healing properties is when you massage your baby. Try<a href="https://mylofamily.com/veda/ayurvedic-baby-massage-oil-lakshadi-thailam-200-ml-253?type=infant"> Mylo Ayurvedic Baby massage Oil </a>for healthy muscular development. </p>

<p>You may like: <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/benefits-of-massaging-your-baby-13269?type=infant">Benefits of massaging your baby</a></p>

<p>On the other hand, positive touch experiences during infancy have been shown to promote healthy brain development and even boost cognitive abilities. One study found that infants who were given more physical touch and affection from their caregivers had higher levels of brain activity in regions associated with learning, memory, and social-emotional development. </p>

<h4><strong>So, how can parents and caregivers ensure that they are providing their babies with the right kind of touch to promote healthy brain development? </strong></h4>

<ul>
	<li>First and foremost, it&#39;s essential to prioritize skin-to-skin contact with infants, particularly in the first few months of life. This type of touch has been shown to promote healthy bonding between parents and babies, as well as help regulate infants&#39; body temperature, breathing, and heart rate. </li>
	<li>In addition to skin-to-skin contact, parents and caregivers can provide infants with a range of different types of touch experiences to promote healthy brain development. This might include gentle massages, cuddling, or playing with toys that provide different textures and sensations. By providing babies with a variety of touch experiences, caregivers can help to promote the development of a diverse range of neural pathways. While taking your baby out for a stroll you can use      <a href="https://mylofamily.com/category/baby-carriers-5391?type=infant">Mylo Baby Carrier </a>to keep your baby close and they can feel your warmth. </li>
	<li>It&#39;s also important to remember that not all touch is positive. Rough handling or neglect can have a detrimental impact on a baby&#39;s developing brain. Caregivers should be mindful of their touch and ensure that it is always gentle, responsive, and nurturing. You can also keep your baby&#39;s skin hydrated and moist by using <a href="https://mylofamily.com/care/daily-moisturising-lotion-for-babies-with-almond-oil-shea-butter-200-ml-283?type=infant">Mylo Care Baby Lotion </a>and can also give your baby a magical touch. </li>
	<li>Touch plays a critical role in shaping babies&#39; brain development, particularly in the first two years of life. By providing infants with positive touch experiences and prioritizing skin-to-skin contact, caregivers can help promote healthy brain development and set the foundation for long-term emotional and cognitive well-being. </li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Skin to skin contact and babies brain development </strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Previous researches also reveal that skin-to-skin touch has several developmental benefits in babies for premature and full-term babies. </p>
	</li>
	<li>Skin to skin contact in babies results in better sleep, improved growth, and good motor development. </li>
	<li>Breastfeeding and other supportive touches for the babies decline their discomfort during painful medications and needle stick procedures. </li>
	<li>Dr.Nathalie Maire of Nationwide children&#39;s hospital states that supportive touch impacts brain development. They include social-emotional connections and learning. </li>
	<li>The doctor also states that touch helps infants communicate early and learn the surroundings. </li>
	<li>Touch declines anxiety and is also pain relief. </li>
	<li>Researchers found a better brain response in babies for a pleasant and nurturing touch. </li>
	<li>The sensory system is the earliest development in humans, which is supported by bodily sensations and touch. </li>
	<li>Touch thus helps in the development of cognitive, social development, and other senses in babies. </li>
</ul>

<h4><strong>Summary</strong></h4>

<p>Gentle touch for all newborns is mandatory. A Touch is the building blocks for behavior, cognition, and communication in babies. Brain development starts at an early stage, and parents must shower love and touch with babies. Do you know that premature babies are less likely for brain development with touch? Supportive touch results in better brain development as in full-term babies. </p>

<p>To establish an essential connection with the brain, all newborn babies need touch. Hence make sure to be in touch with your baby. Boost the brain development in your baby and comfort them by your gentle touch. Babies feel safe and confident in your arms, hence cherish them safely. Parents need to learn the importance of skin-to-skin contact and build a strong bond with their baby.  </p>

<h4><strong>References</strong></h4>

<p>Barnett, L. (2005). Keep in touch: The importance of touch in infant development. <em>Infant Observation</em>, <em>8</em>(2), 115&ndash;123. https://doi.org/10.1080/13698030500171530</p>

<p>McVey, C. J., Niven, C. A., Ibhanesebhor, S., &amp; AlRoomi, L. (1998). Reducing &ldquo;pain&rdquo; in very premature babies: The use of touch and mother&rsquo;s voice. <em>Health Psychology Update</em>, <em>1</em>(32), 22&ndash;26. https://doi.org/10.53841/bpshpu.1998.1.32.22</p>

<p> </p>

<p> </p>

<p style="text-align:center"><iframe frameborder="0" height="167" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T3vM-rOobBI" title="YouTube video player" width="315"></iframe></p>


Kusum Sabharwal

Touch is a fundamental sense of emotional and social associations. Babies need some touch effect to start bonding with their parents. Some studies reveal that skin-to-skin contact by parents and caregivers has an impact on brain development in babies

How touch can shape babies’ brain development

<>Mylo Editor

Baby Massage Oil 200 ml | Dermatologically Tested | Made Safe Australia Certified | Nourishes Skin | Improves Complexion | Ayurvedic Preparation

<div class="BCX0 Ltr OutlineElement SCXW210448556" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left; text-indent:0px">
<p>As a parent, you want to give your child the best of everything. You want your child to grow up into a bright being, and a large part of it depends on what your child eats. The right mix of nutrition from food is what your baby needs to grow up strong and healthy. One such nutrient that is essential for the growth and development of children is omega-3 fatty acids. In this article, we will discuss what are omega-3 fatty acids, their benefits for toddlers and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.</p>

<h2><strong>What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?</strong></h2>

<p>Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of healthy fatty acids that are essential for a number of functions in the body. They are known for the many benefits they provide. If you are a vegetarian, it can become a little difficult for you to get these benefits from a vegetarian diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are mainly found in oily fish, and that becomes a big no if you do not want your baby to eat non-vegetarian food.</p>

<p>However, there are a few vegetarian foods that have omega-3 fatty acids. Pulses, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil seeds and nuts are some sources of omega-3 fatty acids. It is generally suggested that families who do not consume fish should increase their consumption of vegetables rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help make up for the nutritional deficit.</p>

<h2><strong>Benefits of Omega-3 for Toddlers</strong></h2>

<p>Here are the most important benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for your toddler:</p>

<h3><strong>1. May reduce the symptoms of ADHD</strong></h3>

<p>Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition which presents symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and trouble focusing.Omega-3-rich diet can help reduce the symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficiency Hyperactivity Disorder) in children.</p>

<h3><strong>2. Could improve asthma</strong></h3>

<p>Asthma is a chronic disease that can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties, chest pain, coughing, and wheezing. If your child is asthmatic, an omega-3-rich diet can help ease the symptoms of asthma.</p>

<h3><strong>3. Promotes better sleep</strong></h3>

<p>Sleep disturbances are common among children. An omega-3-rich diet can help reduce sleep disturbances, improve sleep duration and help your toddler sleep better.</p>

<h3><strong>4. Enhances brain health</strong></h3>

<p>Children experience the most brain development in the first five years of their life. Omega-3-rich foods can help improve brain function- learning, memory and development. Additionally, it can enhance mood in children and prevent mood disorders and depression.</p>

<h2><strong>Vegetarian Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids</strong></h2>

<p>Now that you know the benefits of an Omega-3-rich diet, here are a few vegetarian options for you:</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Oils such as soya bean oil, flaxseed oil, mustard oil, perilla seed oil, rapeseed or canola oil.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Green leafy veggies.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Olive oil</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Walnuts</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Flaxseeds</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>All the lentils (dals), moong dal being the best source of Omega-3.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Sprouted radish seeds</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Kidney beans (rajma)</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Pulses and legumes such as peas and black gram.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Fenugreek</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Soya-based foods.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Wheatgerm.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>How to Include Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Your Toddler&#39;s Diet?</strong></h2>

<p>Too many ingredients but still confused about how you can make them a part of your baby&#39;s diet plan? Here is some help!</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>You can make palak paneer and serve it to your baby with roti.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Methi parathas with curd.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Sarson (mustard greens) ka saag.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Bathua sabzi</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Broccoli, cabbage sabzis.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>You can make a salad and put lettuce leaves in it along with walnuts and walnut oil.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>All the green leafy veggies can also be a part of raitas that you can with hot parathas.</p>
	</li>
	<li>
	<p>Replace your cooking oil with rapeseed, olive, mustard or soya oils.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>
	<p>Add Pumpkin seeds and Flax seeds in curd or Raitas.</p>
	</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>You may like: <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/10-amazing-home-remedies-for-coughs-and-colds-in-t-100246">10 amazing home remedies for coughs and colds in toddlers</a></strong></p>

<p>Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining your child&rsquo;s overall health but especially their brain health. Providing plenty of foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can help ensure that your child meets their daily requirements. You can also consult your child&#39;s regarding the proper dosage.</p>

<p> </p>
</div>


Dt. Mansi Goyal

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of healthy fatty acids that reduce symptoms of ADHD, improve asthma, promote better sleep and enhance brain function in toddlers.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Toddlers: Benefits and Sources

Learn more: Why is Omega-3 Rich Vegetarian Diet is good for Your Toddler?

<>Priyanka | Mylo Editor

<h2>When will my toddler learn how to scribble and draw?</h2>

<p>It&#39;s a gradual process. Over the last few months of your baby&#39;s first year, his ability to use his hands, or his fine motor skills, will improve steadily. This means he&#39;ll be getting ready to pick up and use crayons.<br />
<br />
When he&#39;s about 15 months old, your toddler may be able to scribble. However, if he needs a little longer, that&#39;s fine too.<br />
<br />
From around 18 months old, your toddler will probably enjoy painting and drawing with crayons, washable felt tips, or paints. He will hold the crayon or brush with his whole hand, and scribble and paint with large movements.<br />
<br />
Between two years old and three years old, your toddler will learn how to hold a crayon or brush using his thumb and first two fingers.<br />
<br />
At first, your toddler will probably finish his picture and then tell you it is of Mummy or Daddy, or a pet, or a favourite toy. But as he grows, your toddler will plan what he&#39;s going to draw before he starts. This shows that he knows he can convey meaning with his pictures.</p>

<h2>How can I encourage my toddler to scribble and draw?</h2>

<p>Applaud these early doodles, which encourage a whole raft of new abilities: Drawing with a crayons involves fine motor skills such as grasping and holding, for instance, as well as boosting your child&#39;s visual acumen and tapping his imagination.<br />
<br />
Set up your budding artist with big sheets of paper taped to the table or to the floor. Chart paper also makes useful drawing paper. A child-sized whiteboard or blackboard placed against the wall or an easel can help too. If you&#39;re concerned about anything getting messy, cover it up.<br />
<br />
Offer your toddler thick, sturdy crayons, washable pens, chunky dustless chalk, or washable paints.<br />
<br />
A fun activity you can do with your toddler is collecting leaves from a nearby park. Look for leaves of varying shapes and textures. Help your toddler to dip them into paint and place them on the paper to see what prints and patterns he can make. Even if it ends in a mess of paint and squashed leaves, he&#39;ll have fun getting there!<br />
<br />
If he&#39;s tired of paints, try printing and stamping. Let him dip his hands and even his feet in paint and stamp them on a paper. Hand and footprints on paper make a great gift wrap or keepsake.<br />
<br />
Tap into his interest in vegetables by brushing horizontally cut pieces of carrot (gajar) , or ladyfinger (bhindi) or potato (aloo) with paint to use as homemade stamps.<br />
<br />
And don&#39;t forget finger-painting. While learning how to hold and manipulate an implement is important, finger-painting gives your toddler&#39;s fine motor skills and creativity a workout, too. You can make lots of creative shapes, animals and creatures and fire up his imagination.<br />
<br />
It&#39;s best to let your child experiment and explore rather than giving him instructions. So let him put his hands in some paint, mix all the colours together, or scribble all over a piece of paper if he wants to. This will give him confidence in what he can achieve and it will also help him to feel a little more independent.<br />
<br />
Whatever your toddler creates, praise it! You could also put it on display in your home. This will show him that you value what he creates.</p>


When will my toddler learn how to scribble or draw?

<p>Is your newborn waking up frequently at night? Are you aware of the reasons why your baby is not getting enough sleep at night? Your newborn should sleep for 10-12 hours on an average, during the day. A few times, babies struggle with sleep during the night and start crying. Ultimately, you and the baby may end up being restless throughout the next day. </p>

<h2><strong>Is it common for babies to wake up at frequent intervals?</strong></h2>

<p>A frequent short-range sleeping cycle is normal for up to 6-month-old babies. The usual time for the baby to sleep is for 50 minutes. After every 50 minutes, the baby wakes up and falls asleep again. The parents need to observe the sleeping cycle to adjust their routine. </p>

<p style="text-align:center"><iframe frameborder="0" height="167" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/69eEbJRcWFw" title="YouTube video player" width="315"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Points to consider for healthy sleep of your little one</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>Nutrition</strong></h3>

<p>If your baby is not getting enough nutrition from his/her diet, he/she baby tends to wake up due to hunger frequently. Hunger is the prime cause of a sleep backlog. Therefore, the parent should feed the baby at appropriate intervals. You can breastfeed your baby during the night.</p>

<h3><strong>Uneasiness</strong></h3>

<p>During the daytime, babies are busy rolling and playing. When they lie down in bed to relax, they need to be completely comfortable to be able to get a sound sleep. Therefore, check the bedding area, sleeping position, the clothing the baby wears. </p>

<h3><strong>Stomach ache </strong></h3>

<p>Stomach ache or <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/learn-all-about-the-best-home-remedies-for-colic-t-13005?">colic</a> is a common issue that a newborn suffers from, every now and then. A <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/burping-your-baby-13143?">burp</a> after each meal helps the baby to pass gas. A mild medication can also be given in case of severe stomach aches, only after consulting the doctor.  </p>

<h3><strong>Noisy surroundings</strong></h3>

<p>While making a baby nap, make it a point to keep surroundings quiet and calm. Else, the baby might get disturbed or distracted by sounds and may also become cranky.</p>

<h3><strong>Check room temperature</strong></h3>

<p>Always adjust the room temperature according to the climatic condition. It should neither be too cold nor too hot. Set the temperature of the room before the <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/understanding-baby-sleep:-46-months-13197?">baby sleeps</a>.</p>

<h3><strong>Clean the sleeping area</strong></h3>

<p>Always remove all the toys and other things kept in the crib or bassinet. The bedding area should be kept neat and clean for the baby&#39;s comfort.</p>

<p>Manage your household chores according to the baby&#39;s sleeping schedule. Note down the time when your baby usually wakes up since this will aid you in understanding the baby&#39;s sleeping pattern.</p>

<p>You may like: <a href="https://mylofamily.com/article/10-baby-sleep-tips-to-help-your-baby-sleep-through-the-night-171503?">10 Baby Sleep Tips to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night (mylofamily.com)</a></p>

<h3><strong>References</strong></h3>

<p>1. Goodlin-Jones BL, Burnham MM, Gaylor EE, Anders TF. (2001). Night waking, sleep-wake organization, and self-soothing in the first year of life.</p>


  Are you aware of the reasons why your baby is not getting enough sleep at night? Read here to instill healthy sleep in your baby.

Top 6 Reasons Why Babies Wake Up at Night 

<p>Playing is essential for your little one&rsquo;s learning, well-being, and overall development. It is through play that newborns learn about the world around them and how they can interact with others.</p>

<p>Besides this, playing together can help you to know your newborn better.</p>

<h2><strong>20 play ideas to aid overall development of your little one</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>1) Face-to-face play</strong></h3>

<p>This game will help sharpen their visual skills. When your baby gazes into your eyes, poke out your tongue slowly. Do it every 15-20 seconds. It may take some notice, but soon your baby will try to imitate your facial expressions.</p>

<h3><strong>2) Feeling different things</strong></h3>

<p>Give your baby different objects such as soft toys, books, rattles of different textures. Feeling different items will let them know more about the objects around them.</p>

<h3><strong>3) Give them tummy time every day</strong></h3>

<p>This is the time when your new-born practices holding the head up and see things from a different perspective. However, always watch your new-born during this time to prevent any hazards.</p>

<h3><strong>4) Have a conversation</strong></h3>

<p>This activity will help your baby become more vocal. Have a conversation and encourage him/her to try and form words as you respond to their coos and gurgles.</p>

<h3><strong>5) Play the music</strong></h3>

<p>You can perform this activity whenever your baby is grumpy. Put on soulful tunes and hold your baby in your arms. Prefer to sway gently. In case you get tired, put your baby down and perform silly movements in front of your baby, as such movements may be amusing to them.</p>

<h3><strong>6) Observe stuff</strong></h3>

<p>Babies love colourful things which can be fruits, vegetables or clothes. Keep some items beside you and show your baby different objects holding them about a foot away from your little one.</p>

<h3><strong>7) Blow bubbles</strong></h3>

<p>Babies are fascinated by bubbles around them. With your baby near you blow bubbles all around to see how they react. If they try to catch a bubble, it will pop and they&rsquo;ll learn about cause and effect.</p>

<h3><strong>8) The rocket ship</strong></h3>

<p>Once your baby can hold his head up, you can play rocket ship. Make realistic noises, as you hold him/her above the head and sink them quickly to the bottom.</p>

<h3><strong>9) Catch the toy</strong></h3>

<p>Place a small soft toy tied with a ribbon in front of your baby. Whenever he/she tries to reach to it, sway it a little. In case your baby touches it, praise him/her. This exercise can also help improve the hand-eye coordination.</p>

<h3><strong>10) Playing with puppets</strong></h3>

<p>You can either bring puppet toys or make some at home using old gloves to hold a puppet show which they will enjoy.</p>

<h3><strong>11) Empty the container</strong></h3>

<p>Stuff a lot of small toys and blocks in a container and help your little one to pick out the items from the container and then fill it back again.</p>

<h3><strong>12) Mini obstacle course</strong></h3>

<p>Create a mini obstacle course, with cushions and block toys. Encourage your little one to clear it up.</p>

<h3><strong>13) Crawl race</strong></h3>

<p>Imitate their crawling movement and nudge them to beat you at crawling a certain distance. This will help improve their leg muscles.</p>

<h3><strong>14) Building blocks </strong></h3>

<p>Once they grow up a little, this game can be introduced as it improves judgment in your baby.</p>

<h3><strong>15) The imitation game</strong></h3>

<p>As your little one will often imitate you, turn this into a fun game by performing funny actions.</p>

<h3><strong>16) Fun food game</strong></h3>

<p>In case you have trouble feeding your baby, try holding the spoon normally and as you come near your baby, use a bobbing motion along with any sound which your baby likes, to make feeding easy.</p>

<h3><strong>17) Clapping game</strong></h3>

<p>It will improve the hand coordination and will probably make it more thrilling. You can combine it with various nursery rhymes to make this activity fun.</p>

<h3><strong>18) Colouring</strong></h3>

<p>Introduce colours when your baby gets a little older and ensure proper supervision. Colouring is a fun filled activity which also improves your child&rsquo;s creativity and work on the motor skills.</p>

<h3><strong>19) Softball </strong></h3>

<p>Place a lightweight ball in front of your baby and let them try to swing it or move it with their legs or hands. This will help strengthen the leg and hand muscles.</p>

<h3><strong>20) Sing, chat, blow raspberries, have fun</strong></h3>

<p>It is these simple things that are best for your little one. Babies may also love nursery rhymes. Remember to enjoy and make it a fun activity for your little one.</p>

<h3> </h3>


Playing games with your baby can be a great way to bond, have fun and build their brains. Discover which games are best for the development of your baby.

The 20 Best Fun and Educational Games to Play With Your Little One and Boost Their Overall Development

Development of the human brain occurs rapidly in the first few years of life and continues at a slower pace into adolescence

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