How a game of peekaboo can change the world

Molly Wright, a precocious and inquisitive seven-year-old, took to the TED stage not to talk about her favourite toys or cartoons, but to dive deep into the world of brain science and childhood development.

The Brain Behind the Baby Talk:

Starting with the endearing coos of her little friend, Ari, Molly emphasizes the crucial importance of the first five years of life in shaping a child's future. During the initial five years of life, a child's brain undergoes unprecedented growth, reaching almost 90% of an adult's brain volume by age seven.

The "Serve and Return" Principle:

Molly also highlights the essential role of consistent and meaningful interactions, termed "serve and return," between parents and their children. Simple games like 'peekaboo' aren't mere pastimes; they're pivotal in building attributes such as memory, trust, vocabulary, and attention span.

The Detriment of Disconnection:

In a moving demonstration, Molly illustrated the distressing impact of a lack of connection. A brief experiment showed how children, when not engaged, undergo confusion and stress, highlighting the essential need for constant connection, especially in today's digital age.

This is something, as dads, can be difficult when many of us have our work in our pocket on our phone. Molly demonstrates how detrimental device disconnection can be for our young ones.

Play's Greater Purpose:

To children, play is not just about fun; it's a crucial building block for their future. Each interaction lays a foundation for vital life skills and mental well-being.

Molly's insights challenge parents and society at large to prioritize these early interactions. As she concluded, such simple games might indeed have the power to change the world. Her talk is a must-watch for anyone interested in the profound effects of early childhood engagements on future development.

Watch the full TED Talk