Cognitive development can be understood and defined as the way a child learns, obtains information, and interacts with everything around them. As children meet different developmental milestones, they gradually take on different types of cognitive skills. However, a child’s ability doesn’t really matter too much, with it being encouraged to introduce and practice numerous activities that promote learning. By providing stimulating experiences, parents can actively support their child’s growth across various zones of learning. Here is some advice from this private school in London, on activities that you can explore with your child to help support their cognitive development.
Memory games
Games are the simplest way to engage a child and help them learn. When it comes to play time, try and incorporate memory games, such as I spy, I went shopping, or memory card games. These types of games are known for enhancing concentration, attention, and memory skills, as little ones will have to remember different locations or objects.
Sing songs
Not only is this an exciting activity, but one that can be practiced and explored anywhere. The good news is, children are quite drawn to music, with nursery rhymes having particular patterns, rhythms and beats to help with child development. Be sure to take the time to sing songs with your child, whilst encouraging them to sing along with you. You can do this by playing some of their favourite songs and music regularly in the house, and taking the opportunity of car journeys to also allow them to have sing along sessions. Eventually, you may notice your child beginning to sing by themselves. This activity may seem simple, but helps promote memory and word identification.
Science experiments
Science experiments are always an exciting activity to practice, usually because children love the idea of making things fizzle, pop and bang. Take some time out to engage in age-appropriate science experiments that encourage exploration and curiosity. For example, one activity you can complete is mixing colours to create new ones. Another that you can partake in is observing and discussing the changes in plant growth. Not only are these experiments exciting, but they foster critical thinking, observational skills and scientific understanding.
Puzzles
Introduce age-appropriate puzzles into your child’s learning routine, as they help to challenge your child’s thinking and reasoning abilities. Start with simple puzzles and gradually work through more difficult ones.
Supporting your child’s cognitive growth couldn’t be simpler. By introducing small activities here and there, you can support your child to reaching all of their developmental milestones with ease.