17 Sept 2024
As fellow parents and educators, we understand that raising young children can be both incredibly rewarding and, at times, challenging. Those moments when your little one has a meltdown in the grocery store or struggles to follow simple instructions can leave you feeling frustrated and wondering, “Why can’t they just…?” We’ve all been there, and we want you to know that you’re not alone.
Today, we’d like to share some fascinating information about your child’s brain development, specifically focusing on the frontal lobe. This knowledge has been a game-changer for many parents, including ourselves, in understanding our children’s behaviour and setting reasonable expectations.
The Developing Brain: A Work in Progress
Imagine your child’s brain as a city under construction. The frontal lobe is like the city’s control centre, but it’s the last area to be fully built. In fact, construction continues well into the mid-20s! In children under 5, this control centre is just beginning to take shape.
What Does This Mean for Your Little One?
In children under 5, the frontal lobe is rapidly developing but is far from mature. It’s involved in:
Basic impulse control: Ever see your child reach for a cookie right after you’ve said no? That’s the frontal lobe learning the ropes!
Simple planning: They might tell you about wanting to build a massive block tower, but struggle with the steps to make it happen.
Emerging emotional awareness: They’re beginning to recognise feelings, but managing them is a whole different ball game.
Developing attention: They can focus intently on things they love (hello, favourite cartoon!), but may struggle with less exciting tasks.
Social learning: They’re figuring out how to play with others, but sharing can still be a big challenge.
Setting Reasonable Expectations: Be Kind to Yourself and Your Child
Understanding that the frontal lobe is still developing can be a huge relief. It helps us realize that our children aren’t giving us a hard time – they’re having a hard time. Here are some gentle reminders:
Impulse Control: When your child acts without thinking, take a deep breath. Their impulse control is still developing. Gentle reminders and redirection can work wonders.
Emotional Regulation: Those big emotions and tantrums? Totally normal. Offer comfort and help them name their feelings. Remember, you’re their safe space to express these big emotions.
Attention Span: If your child can’t sit still for long activities, it’s not defiance – it’s development! Keep things short and sweet.
Decision Making: When they change their mind for the hundredth time, remember their brain is practising making choices. Offering limited options can help.
Social Behaviour: If sharing is a struggle, know that it’s a complex skill. Celebrate small victories and model the behaviour you want to see.
Planning: Break tasks into simple steps. Your child isn’t being difficult when they can’t follow multi-step instructions – their brain is still learning how to plan.
A Note of Encouragement
Parenting young children is a journey filled with joy, challenges, and countless opportunities for growth – for both you and your child. On those days when you feel overwhelmed, remember that you’re doing an amazing job. Your patience, love, and understanding are literally helping to shape your child’s brain.
Every child develops at their own pace, and that’s okay. If you have concerns about your child’s development, we’re here to talk, or you can always consult with your paediatrician.
Remember, you’ve got this! And we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Meet the author
With 15 years in the Childcare industry, Leanne brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Starting out as a Cert III trainee, then moving through a range of roles from family daycare operator and Centre Director to most recently working as a Senior Field Officer for the Department of Education. Her goal is to become a strong support for the teams at each service, alleviating stresses, empowering educators and bringing the joy back to the job.
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