Key to thinking abilities, social development
There's new information out, that shows the more a baby--or child--gets interaction and feedback, the better the child's later thinking and social development.
Dr. Rich O'Neill, Psychologist at SUNY Upstate, says the information is important to parents, but just as important as caregivers are chosen for young children.
A 'double TV study' had mom and baby in separate rooms, but watching each other on live tv, and when they responded to each other both were happy. However, a time lag in reaction led to distress in the baby. Conclusion: attentiveness, plus cognitive stimulation are important, not only in the home but also in child care situations. Among questions to ask:
Are caregivers attentive to children?
Are they responding appropriately?
Do they talk, read and play, encourage curiousity and encourage questions?
Are there toys and books to play with?
There's a free booklet that summarizes the study (of over 1,000 families) and provides tools to assess child care possibilities.
