Interesting activities to develop your child's cognitive skills

It's at the initial age that the foundation for life is laid. To foster this foundation, the development of cognitive skills is imperative. The way in which a child acquires knowledge or interacts with his or her environment and learns, are collectively part of cognitive development. Since active learning is best achieved through physical experience, it is recommended that parents focus on indulging their children in some hands-on activities.

Dr. Asmita Mahajan, Consultant-Neonatologist and Pediatrician, SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim-A Fortis Associate, says “Parents can aid the development of cognitive skills by encouraging their children to be part of activities focused on memory, attention, perception, and concentration. Including such activities in the child's daily routine will help him/ her reach their full potential and strengthen their intellectual functioning. Cognitive development consists of pattern recognition, working memory, executive function, concept formation and reasoning, intelligence, perception, attention, memory, and academic achievement. Apart from physical activities and games that develop their physical strength, there are other activities to help them develop cognitive skills.”

Here’s a list of activities that ensure the sound development of cognitive skills in children:

Practicing and recognizing the alphabet is one of the strongest ways of cognitive skill development. Parents can help their children with alphabet identification through alphabet songs, alphabet books, and puzzles.

“Parents can identify colors and shapes when they are casually interacting with the child. For example, they can point out a ball and say, "that's a round red ball." Such minor activities help the child learn about specific shapes and colors,” says Dr. Mahajan.

Games nourish the problem-solving and creative part of the brain, becoming a key factor in cognitive skills development. Types of games can vary based on age. For toddlers, games involving shapes and colors would prove beneficial, and for the age group of 5yrs and above, puzzles are a great pick. Let them explore a new toy without showing how it works. Routine play will help kids develop their mental cognitive faculties. It can be done through DIY activity kits, educational games, memory games like ‘find it first’, or memory cards. Art too is an activity wherein the children can express themselves.

Visit to interesting places such as museums and libraries, among other places, has a significant impact on the cognitive skills of the child. They are exposed to several materials which stimulate their curiosity to learn about things. Places such as museums and galleries have a lot to offer to the growing intellect. Parents can ask questions about several things showcased there to indulge the little one.

“Asking real-life questions helps in the development of problem-solving, decision-making, and innovation in the children's brains. With practical questions, the child can learn the application of knowledge, skills, and values. The real-life questions also help your child in analyzing the problem, which will help develop critical thinking in them,” advises Mahajan.

While working on the development of cognitive skills, parents need to understand that every child grows at their own pace and hence not overburden them with activities. Considering their voice gives them a confidence boost. Cognitive skills development can happen through several activities, from games to normal discussions. However, the most effective way is through fun and lighthearted activities.