Little things can bring brains big positives

THE digital world for children can offer enormous benefits to young minds, but it needs to be used in a positive manner, according to the team leader of the Little People, Big Lives report.

Professor Christine Bennett said the report, which focused on brain development, positive psychology and social connectedness in its five action areas, demonstrated the value of taking parenting back to basics.

“As a mother of five myself across a 20-year timespan, I can sort of see in that period from eldest to youngest how the world has changed,” she said.

“I think that the digital world has an enormous amount to offer us but it needs to be supporting us in a healthy, flourishing life rather than driving us into behaviours which are bad for us.

“Children don’t get the chance to get bored - they’re so busy, it’s a fast pace of life and the expectation is there that anything you want to know you can know instantly.

“Meal time is really important as it helps children longer term when, rather than dishing up the plate, they dish their own quantities.

“And with active play, I think organised sport has an important role as well, but it’s also running around the backyard, to the park, or walking to school.”

A key finding of the report Professor Bennett said was that creating safe and inclusive environments for children who had experienced adverse childhood events could promote positive brain development and brighter futures.

“The new research on positive psychology and moving a child into a new environment that is safe and secure ... can change direction (of the brain) and grow in a positive direction,” she said.

‘‘ CHILDREN DON’T GET THE CHANCE TO GET BORED.

PROFESSOR CHRISTINE BENNETT