The Influence of Environmental Factors in the Growth and Development of the Little One

The environment is an important aspect in the growth and development of the Little One until they reach adulthood. These factors can influence the chances of achieving the maximum potential of an individual. Furthermore, environmental factors can affect the growth and development of the Little One since before they are born. Exposure to diseases or harmful substances, such as cigarettes, alcohol, or infections, can trigger the occurrence of abnormal fetal growth.

In addition to prenatal environmental factors, there are also postnatal environmental factors, referring to factors that play a role after birth. These factors are divided into the following groups:

• Biological environment, such as gender, nutrition, chronic diseases, and metabolism.
• Physical environment, such as cleanliness, weather, and housing conditions.
• Psychosocial environment, such as stimulations, learning motivations, friends, and stress.
• Family environment.

Certainly, genetic factors also play a role in the development of intelligence in the Little One. However, this is not absolute. Children who have the same family background but are raised in different conditions may have different intelligence levels.

The brain of the Little One comprises of a hundred billion nerve cells, which eventually form synapses (links between nerve cells). The more synapses formed, the more intelligent the Little One becomes. Stimulations from the environment can help the formation of these synapses.

As the initial step, parents can provide stimulations in the form of love and affection. The Little One that grows in a loving and secure environment will become an independent and confident individual with better cognitive, behavioural, and emotional abilities.

Parents should also support the growth and development of the Little One by ensuring that their nutritional requirements are well met. Provide the Little One with food substances that contain complete and balanced nutrients every day. If their nutritional requirements are met, the Little One will be ready to receive stimulations and education. Conversely, if the Little One does not obtain adequate nutrition, they will be easily tired and fall sick, as well as experience difficulties in concentrating. This will potentially affect the teaching and learning process.

In terms of socializing, parents should also provide support for the Little One so that they can form good and healthy associations. By socializing, they experience the process of building their EQ, which is also required in all the aspects of their life.

After knowing the importance of stimulations for the growth and development process of the Little One, parents should ensure that the Little One receives stimulations that are adequate, age-appropriate, and high-quality, so that they achieve their maximum potential.