To say that love changes people is redundant. However, research by child psychiatrist Joan Luby of the University of Washington School of Medicine reveals that mother's displays of affection make areas of the brain linked to affection grow up to twice as fast. MRI scans have proven that the benefits of affection are most evident in children younger than 6 years old. The exams also showed that love behavior after that age does not compensate for the time the mother was distant.
The test
Participated in the study 127 children who underwent magnetic resonance imaging from the beginning of school life until adolescence. Mothers were recorded in situations where they performed stressful activities around their children.
changes in the brain
Mothers' affectivity changes the infant's hippocampus, the area responsible for controlling emotions, learning and memory. Mothers' affection is critical in preschool and healthy hippocampal growth helps children to be emotionally stable adults, explains Joan Luby. The psychiatrist also reports that measures to help parents raise their children should be encouraged.
To be more affectionate with the children
Here are some tips to strengthen ties with children:
- Hug and kiss, demonstrations of affection give security and reinforce the self-esteem of the child who feels loved.
- Set aside at least 15 minutes daily to sit on the floor and play.
- Read a story to your child daily before bedtime.
Don't let the rush of everyday life stop you from being affectionate with your children. What he receives in childhood will impact his adult life. By the way, have you hugged your child today?
Text written by Sumaia de Santana Salgado from the Eu Sem Fronteiras Team
