The First Year Of Life

The first year of a baby’s life is the most important for brain development. During this first year of life, the baby’s brain contains millions of neurons that are waiting to be mapped to distinct activities. By the time the baby is at full term inside the womb, these neurons are already responsible for breathing, pumping blood, and the baby’s heartbeat.

Studies have shown that the number of neurons can increase or decrease by 30% based on the amount of stimulus and social interaction during the first two years. For example, by one year of age, the neurons pathways that are necessary for sounds and language are wired by the first year. The more words the child is exposed to by age two will determine how extensive his/her vocabulary will grow.

There are windows of opportunity where development has the best chances of succeeding. For example, very early developmental activities include touching, hugging and nurturing. Listening to music and language skills are developed during another window of opportunity. Physical development milestones such as sitting up, rolling over, and walking are also closely monitored during the first year of life.

The reason why the first year of life is so critical is that any delay in reaching these milestones is an indication of a greater problem. For example, if the child does not roll over by a certain age, it may indicate a gross motor skill problem. Another example is that if a toddler does not say a certain number of words by age two, a hearing, or other problem may exist.

Many parents stress out about these milestones, and with good reason. The good news is that your child’s pediatrician is well versed in the first year of life and the windows of opportunity that exist. Instead of attempting to read books about child development to figure it out, call your pediatrician. He can give you a schedule that will enable you to have a well visit at certain time intervals. During these visits, you will discuss your child’s development and determine if he/she is on track or if there are areas for concern.

Our Location

Find us on the map

HOURS OF OPERATION

Find Out When We Are Open

Monday:

11:00am-7:00pm

Tuesday:

11:00am-7:00pm

Wednesday:

9:00am-5:00pm

Thursday:

9:00am-5:00pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

8:00 am-2:00 pm