5 Things You Need to Know About Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood

1. Few Parents Understand

Though many parents are indeed equipped in many ways to bring a child into the world and raise him or her successfully, a little insight into human development can go a long way. General time frames and an understanding of developmental milestones beyond walking and saying a first word can be incredibly helpful; for instance, parents can figure out if they are asking too much of their child and causing frustration or if there is a delay of some sort that needs attention.

2. Less Imaginative Children

Basic props and toys offer children cognitive and imaginative exercise. Even pretend play and private conversations, which is when a child is playing and appears to be talking to himself, enhance intellectual skills that lead to higher achievement in school. Practicing with symbols rather than realistic objects helps with language acquisition and reading comprehension, for example.

3. Educations Media Contributes Very Little

Media exposure is a very passive activity, even the ones that invite children to sing along and count out loud. Interaction with other people is key to positive and healthy development as children are able to see the effect of their responses and engage in thought processes that take place in real time. Additionally, there is not much research out there validating the educational value of these enrichment activities.

4. Overly Structured Schedules Hinder

A child who can successfully self-regulate is able to control their emotions and impulses. The child can self-soothe and calm him or herself down, as well as independently amuse themselves and take intiative towards positive action. Too many team practices and lessons are not nearly as supportive of developing children as some people think; too much structure gives the child little opportunity to learn what to do on their own.

5. Poor Attachment Leads to Negative Behaviors

Neglect or ignorance can lead to poor attachment, or the absence of bonding between an infant and a parent figure. Though the effects on the youngster may not seem apparent right away, aggressive or downright hostile behaviors towards others may result later in life. An inability to interact positively with other humans may also manifest in anti-social behaviors and in a worst case scenario, a profound lack of remorse.