If intelligence means an ability to learn, then children between the ages of 2 to 6 may be the most intelligent humans on the planet!

Early childhood, also known as preschool, spans the ages of two to six. Pre-schoolers, like infants and toddlers, develop quickly on both a physical and cognitive level. A short, chubby toddler who barely speaks transforms into a taller, leaner child who talks nonstop. The fact that development is truly integrated is especially evident during early childhood: the biological, psychological, and social changes that occur at this time (as well as throughout the rest of one’s life) are all interconnected.

Although pre-schoolers’ physical development is rapid, it is slower and more stable than that of infants. Changes in the child’s brain, gross and fine motor skills, and health are all important influences on physical development during the preschool years. 

The brains of children develop in spurts known as critical periods. The first occurs around the age of two, and the second during adolescence. The number of connections (synapses) between brain cells (neurons) doubles at the start of these periods. Adults have twice as many synapses as two-year-olds. Because it is through these connections between brain cells that learning occurs, the brain can learn twice as fast as it can at any other time in life. As a result, the experiences that children have during this stage have a long-term impact on their development.

This crucial period of brain development begins around the age of two and ends around the age of six. It is an excellent opportunity to lay the groundwork for a child’s holistic education. Encouraging a love of learning, Focusing on emotional intelligence, and not Treating young children’s education as merely a precursor to “real” learning are 3 ways to maximise this critical period.

Facilitate a Love Of Learning: Focus On Breadth, Not Depth

Focusing on the breadth of skill development rather than the depth of skill development is one way to avoid focusing on results during this stage of development. Exposing children to a variety of activities lays the groundwork for them to develop skills in a variety of areas. This is an excellent time to introduce children to music, reading, sports, math, art, science, and foreign languages.

Instead of focusing on results, young children should enjoy the process of learning. Educators and parents should emphasise the benefits of trying new things and learning new things. We need to teach children that making mistakes is a natural part of learning.

This is also the time to develop a growth mindset, which is the belief that abilities and talents are developed through effort rather than being innately fixed. Educators should avoid assigning labels to students or making broad statements about their abilities.

Emotional Intelligence is also crucial

Yes, we want children to be able to read fluently and understand the fundamentals of mathematics. But we should not disregard emotional intelligence. Interpersonal skills like kindness, empathy, and teamwork should all benefit from learning during this critical period of brain development. 

Interaction with others

Because humans are social creatures, it’s no surprise that social behaviour has a significant impact on our brains and is crucial for child development. Social activities in which a child is actively engaged by their parents or other children aid in healthy brain development and social skills development and are one of the most effective ways for your child to learn. Direct communication with your child not only promotes growth in the language center of their brain but also aids in their development.

Innovation and New Experiments

Children develop healthy, curious baby brains in a creative environment where they are exposed to a variety of new ideas, objects, and experiences. The effect of a more experience-rich environment was most noticeable in animal studies when the subjects were exposed earlier in life. The most effective and enriching interactive experiences are those that are appropriate for a child’s age. 

Key Takeaways 

Large motor skills can be developed in toddlerhood when parents provide ample opportunities for young children to practice their newly developed abilities through physical activity. Giving children the space, time, and resources, they need to kick, climb, run, jump, and balance is critical to their growth and development. Similarly, parents can assist their children in developing their fine-motor skills. Play experiences that involve putting puzzles together, drawing, cutting with safety scissors, or stringing beads will help young children develop better fine motor movements and hand-eye coordination. Remember, all children truly require for early childhood development is a safe environment in which to explore the world around them, as well as a caring adult to assist them.

Also published on Medium.