World Brain Day: Understanding the importance of brain health in children

In a world where the pace of life is getting faster with each passing day, it is important not to ignore the importance of brain health in children. The early years of a child’s life play a vital role in shaping their cognitive, emotional and physical development, setting the foundation for a successful and fulfilling future. Investing in the well-being and development of young minds not only ensures their personal development but also lays the groundwork for a thriving and prosperous society.

The importance and need to focus on child care in a holistic manner is a goal that is well understood by doctors, teachers, parents and society. On World Brain Day, let us remind ourselves what it means to nurture and nurture the brains of children.

Dr. Dinika Anand, Clinical Psychologist, BLK Max Super Specialty Hospital, talks about the importance of brain health in children.

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World Brain Day: Importance of brain health in children

First, child brain nutrition needs to be understood as a multidimensional construct that involves addressing and ensuring not only the absence of disease, but also well-being through good mental health, says Dr. Anand.

Taking this holistic approach ensures a commitment to brain health in children, focusing as much on rest and sleep as we do on nutrition. Inculcating good sleep hygiene from a young age—bedtime routines that are not altered or shaped according to the convenience and needs of adults, a physical environment that is conducive to good sleep, and so on—are cornerstones for a healthy mind.

Dr. Anand further explains, at the other end of this pole is providing children with psychological and mental safety by helping them develop an understanding of their feelings as well as coping mechanisms to address these feelings.

Perhaps, this involves moving away from the popular belief that children do not register or are affected by emotional conflict, discord or hardship in their home environment. Healthy minds are nurtured by living in a context where children feel the presence of love, security, and stability.

In short, nurturing young minds is about developing a perspective where we not only address a child’s physical needs but also focus on their mental and psychological development.