Every parent wants their child to lead a happy and successful life, perhaps dreaming of them becoming successful lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers in the future. However, the preparation for learning starts young. As a child, they have the most malleable mental state, and laying the foundation for a strong and healthy brain starts now. Cognitive skills (brain powers) include attention, short-term memory, long-term memory, visual processing, auditory processing, logic & reasoning, and processing speed.

Below are a few tips to help your child maximise their cognitive function or brain power (adapted from doctorinsta.com).

1. A loving environment

Although this may seem obvious, a loving environment for children can help boost their self-confidence and will make them more assured in their abilities. In the future, they may be more likely to take risks to get to the top, confident in the support system you have provided them from a young age. Try complimenting your child when he or she does something special or puts in a lot of work for a project. Showing affection (and letting your child show affection to you) will also allow your child to develop their communication skills.

2. Exercise:

Your child may not be running on the treadmill or getting a gym membership, but playing sports and gentle exercise can help your child’s cognitive ability. Exercise and physical activity help provide oxygen to the brain and helps it grow. Additionally, through the development of their motor skills, they establish better synaptic connections that help in a quicker brain to muscle nerve response. Of all the sports, swimming is actually the best, as it works all of the major muscle groups.

3. Sleep

Children should be receiving ten to eight hours of sleep every night. Sleep is a restorative process and helps recharge and rest the brain. Having a daily routine will establish a sense of normalcy in the child’s life and will encourage to form lifelong healthy habits. Additionally, at this time, make sure to have a ‘reflection session’ with your child, encouraging them to count their blessings and reflect on the positive aspects of their day. This also helps build their character in the future.

4. Healthy food

At this age, children are still developing and growing, and a healthy, nutritious diet is key to successful physical and cognitive growth. Specifically, protein rich food helps for the brain to grow faster and gain more mass. This includes foods such as lean meats, nuts, and various grains and lentils. Omega-3, an essential nutrient for brain development, is important for developing concentration, knowledge acquisition, and critical thinking.

5. Experience

Allowing your child to experience the world will allow them to stretch their thinking, challenge their opinions, and expand their curiosity. Show your children nature documentaries, take them to museums, and read to them often.