THE BABY BRAIN MAP

Zero to Three provides current research with the latest discoveries that promotes health and development for Infants and Toddlers. 

I continually find myself referencing this website for current information.  Now with our newest addition that joined us this week I am able to keep track of his brain development through his first 36 months of life.  With the information that is provided I am able to learn what is taking place and ideas that we can do to help in the healthy development of our little guy.  For example, “Does responding to a baby’s cry help with brain development” – The brain is greatly influenced by interactions with the environment in which a child grows up in.  Crying is described as maybe nature’s way to make sure that an infant is getting the interactions that they need.  As we know from research snuggling, talking, singing or music are great examples of interactions that will help in early stages of brain development (Zero to Three, 2011).

I am excited to follow along as our little one grows and develops.  Knowing that each child is different I know that I will continue to reference this website frequently for suggestions and answers to the “whys” that will follow.

Melmed, M. (2011). Zero to three. Retrieved from http://www.zerotothree.org/



My Research Journey

I have chosen to focus my research on the topic of play.  I feel that it is important to first define play in terms of early childhood education and then continue my focus and research on how prek and early elementary school teachers can develop lesson plans that incorporate play into their learning objectives. 

I feel very passionate about educating parents and educators on the importance of incorporating play into the daily curriculum and the developmental benefits that occur, as they need this time to use their imaginations and explore without rules and instruction.

So far I have found this simulation process to be very helpful.   I have been able to successfully narrow done a topic without even realizing that was what I was doing.  As I move forward on this journey does anyone have any insight or suggestions as to resources that may help with researching this topic?