In the last episode, we have learned about myths on children’s emotional regulation. Today we will discuss two common myths related to children’s age and development.
Myth # 5
Children’s brain development halt after the age of five! – Wrong
It is indeed true that more than 1 billion neural connections per second are made in 1st five years. But, it is completely absurd to think that it halts after five years of age! Every child is unique and different. Some children may have delayed milestone development. They may seem like acting younger than their age. That does not mean that they are not growing. They are growing at their own pace. If you notice the delay, then visit a developmental pediatrician and seek professional help rather than being panicked listening to a layman.
“Focus on quality and ease of movement, not on the age a milestone is accomplished.”
-Magda Gerber, an American Early Childhood Educator (1910 – 2007)
Myth # 6
Screen time is the core cause of developmental delays! – Myth
Of course, spending time on smartphones, computers,s and playing video games is a big problem nowadays. But a core cause! A big no! if it was, then each and every child would have a developmental delay in this generation. Some children have predisposing factors, due to which screen time only exaggerated the criteria of milestone delays. Screen dependency only delivers one-way communication; it has no interaction. If you sit with your child and try to get involved with them, it could be a completely different story. Explain the things she/he is watching and get interactive output by playing. In this era of technological evolution, we, along with our children have to keep pace with the race. Make the device a source of learning, not a source of regrets. Because the core problem is “not using the device in a proper calculative way”.
“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play, children learn how to learn.”
-O. Fred Donaldson, International Play Specialist
So, my fellow parents! Do not waste your time on how or why the delay happened! Do not run after the milestones! Do not even count the quantity of time! Just be patient, plan, give your child quality time and visit a professional when needed.
Dr. Irin Binte Azad
Parent Educator and Counselor
Women Support Initiative Forum (WSIF)
General Physician
Trained in NDD and Inclusive Education, IER, DU
Trainee in NDD, IPNA, BSMMU
