When my children were younger, I made it a priority to engage in playtime with them. I remember transforming into a “helicopter,” swooping down to offer them bites of homemade baby food. There’s a cherished video of my twin daughters and me, laughing as we pulled a blanket off their heads to reveal their joyful faces. I invested in educational toys, like the alphabet mats and blocks with three-letter words, hoping they would learn to spell their names before they turned two. I had lofty expectations for them and myself.
In an eye-opening TED Talk, young speaker Mia Roberts shares five key strategies for parents to ensure their children not only survive but truly thrive — all without the need for expensive toys or gadgets. The remarkable part? Mia is just seven years old.
Mia Roberts: Nurturing Every Child’s Potential by Age Five
In her brief yet impactful seven-minute presentation, Mia emphasizes that nurturing a child’s development begins even before birth. While we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, Mia suggests that parents can also connect with their unborn babies through simple actions. Speaking kindly to your baby and gently rubbing your belly can foster a bond. Playing music, singing, or describing your surroundings during walks can significantly support their development even before they arrive.
Mia stresses the importance of “serve and return” interactions with our children, highlighting that engaging in play is crucial for their growth and future well-being. “Interactions, early and often, matter,” she states confidently, reminding us that she’s speaking on brain science from the perspective of a seven-year-old.
In her talk, Mia illustrates the consequences of distraction by sharing an example of a father and his one-year-old son, Noah. When the father becomes engrossed in his tablet, the stress experienced by Noah becomes evident. “Kids are naturally inclined to seek meaningful connections,” Mia notes as Noah tries to grab his father’s attention. “A lack of engagement can lead to confusion and stress.”
As parents, we often find ourselves preoccupied with our devices, even during family meals. After hearing Mia’s insights, I’ve resolved to be more patient with my partner when she prioritizes quality time with our kids over responding to my messages. I admire how attentively she engages with them, setting a compelling example for me to follow.
Mia’s final piece of advice centers around building a supportive community for our children. The influences from family, friends, and neighbors play a crucial role in shaping their lives. As parents, it’s our responsibility to curate a healthy environment filled with individuals who can offer guidance and support.
A strong community not only aids parents but also enriches children’s lives by exposing them to diversity and fostering a sense of belonging. “Community involvement sends a powerful message to children: you are valued, you are loved, you belong. This message holds immense power to uplift every child,” emphasizes the Children’s Bureau. The saying goes that it takes a village to raise a child, and the people we choose to surround our kids with can have a lasting impact — so choose wisely. If you’re looking to strengthen your “village,” Exchange Family Center has valuable resources available.
“Every moment together is an opportunity to connect, talk, and play,” Mia reminds us as she concludes her talk. “These interactions are more than just games; they shape our future.”
This article was originally published on Aug. 5, 2021.
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Summary
Mia Roberts, a seven-year-old speaker, delivers a TED Talk highlighting five essential strategies for parents to promote their children’s development, starting even before birth. She emphasizes the importance of meaningful interactions, playtime, and building a supportive community, reminding us that every moment spent together shapes the future.