Baby Einstein, Leap Frog, v.Smile Baby, Baby Mozart, Baby Laptop, Baby Plus. All these electronic toys are designed for kids from 0 – 3 and marketed as tools to stimulate learning and increase natural smarts. But do they work?
This isn’t rocket science, but I’m here to tell you that, well … no … they don’t. And now we have research to support it. A recent study published in the Journal of Pediatrics showed that these so-called ‘baby brain tools’ may actually slow verbal learning. Researchers can’t say why, but results suggest that technology is not a good substitute for that human touch. It turns out that the most effective way to spur brain development is good old parent-child interaction.
So talk it up. Chatter away to your little guy. Read to him and make sure he chimes in and participates. It’s the emotional content and your presence that make a difference. You knew it all along. Babies learn from loving adults.
The information provided by MamasOnCall is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, but is for information purposes only. You assume full responsibility for the health and well-being of your family. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical or psychiatric condition.
What You Said