Children are at their most receptive and are most capable of learning and being stimulated between the ages of three months and three years.  By the end of the first year, the child’s brain has reached two-thirds of its eventual adult size and by the end of the second year as much as four-fifths.  By six years old, the child’s brain is 90 % of its total adult weight.  Although the actual number of brain cells is determined at birth, the NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS made between the brain cells is directly related to the type of stimulation the child receives.  The optimal stimulation of development will enhance a child’s ability to assess various situations, solve problems, and develop fine and gross motor skills.

Mothers and miracles offer a structured, interactive, early learning programme for children between three months and three years in the areas of:

1.    Intellectual stimulation:

            (Cognitive/intellectual, language, creative and perceptual)

Mothers and miracles focuses on developing areas such as concept formation, mother and child communication, language, early math skills, creative abilities of divergent thought and pride in his/her own creations.

2.    Physical:

            (fine and gross motor)

The development of fine motor skills aids the ability to master complex skills such as writing, while gross motor work concentrates on developing bigger movements, balance, co-ordination, etc.

3.    Personality:

            (social, emotional and moral development)

Personality development is encouraged by interaction with other children of the same age and is guided by the mother’s example.

4.    Value-added activities:

Workshop leaders also host/present talks about topics such as first aid, sleeping problems, discipline, eye-testing, photographic sessions, etc. and organise outings to zoos, farmyards, etc.  Fathers also have the opportunity to get involved at specially arranged sessions.

5.    Baby massage:

During the early months of life, babies uncurl from their foetal position, and in so doing, stretch their muscles and open their joints.  Massage is especially suited to these early months and encourages muscular co-ordination and suppleness, helping to prepare the baby for later coordinated movements to come.  It is a valuable means of preparing the body for activity and improving mobility and relaxation.  It also stimulates the circulatory system and benefits the heart rate, breathing and digestion.

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Last modified: March 28, 2007