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Since the first day of conception, human beings’ brains develop rapidly. In the first 1,000 days of life, the infant’s brain forms approximately 700 new synaptic connections each second or upon each interaction with others. These synaptic connections develop and associate with senses such as vision, hearing and later establish more complex circuitry which supports the child’s motor skills, language mastery, and other cognitive functioning. If a child’s development deviates from normal limits, a standardized developmental assessment by a specialist should be put in place to further investigate the child’s developmental needs, brain development and to provide intervention as early as possible.
Nobel prize laureate Professor James Heckman states that in terms of return, investing in early childhood education gives the most rewarding outcome. According to the Harvard Center of Child Development, the earlier the intervention of developmental delay, the more cost-effective and the less effortful it is. Timely intervention can significantly improve children’s development, and help children learn important life skills. Parent coaching on providing a stimulating environment, pivotal response training, attachment-based relationship building, as well as tailor-made multidisciplinary intervention on motor skills, language development, cognitive and executive function training, is imperative in supporting the child to catch up from their development deviance while minimizing its negative impact on the child’s life.
This article was independently written by Pediatrician Dr. Wai Fan Fanny LAM, MRCP(UK), HKCPaed, HKAM(Paed), Specialist in Developmental-Behavioural Paediatrics, Honorary Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Hong Kong, Tutor, The Association for Research in Infant and Child Development, UK.
This article was independently written by Healthy Matters. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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