Notes on "How a Game of Peekaboo Can Change the World"

Introduction

Speaker: Molly
Introduction of her little friend Ari and neighbour Almajot.
Purpose: Discuss the significant impact of early interactions on children's development.

The first five years are crucial for health and brain development.
Children start learning even before birth.
Example: Ari's growth from birth to age 7, showing physical and emotional changes.

Baby's brain size at birth is represented by a blue bag.
After one year, brain volume nearly doubles (red bag).
By age 7, the brain is about 90% of adult size.
Development rate: Up to 1 million neural connections can be formed every second.

Serve and Return: Connect, talk and play with children.
Types of Games:
- Copycat games: Build imagination and empathy.
- Naming games: Enhance vocabulary and attention.
- Peekaboo: Develops memory and trust.

Interactions help develop relationships and mental health.
Important life skills include:
- Making friends.
- Taking tests.
- Job readiness.
- Family planning.

Example: Demonstration of child (Ari) attempting to regain connection with his dad after a disruption.
Lack of meaningful connections can lead to confusion and stress.
Long-term absence of connection can affect trust and learning.

Strong relationships with adults provide children with confidence.
The first five years are critical for development, starting from pregnancy.
Call to Action: Engage through serve and return interactions early and often.
Vision: If everyone participated, it could change the future for children.
Final note: "Every moment together is an opportunity to connect, talk, and play."
A game like peekaboo is more than just play; it’s an investment in the future.