LENA Talking Tips Week 4

Weekly LENA Talking Tip

Week 4

This week’s talking tip: Touch, hug, hold your child while you play, read books, etc.
Skin contact, or physical touch such as hugging, is an important stimulation required to grow a healthy brain and a strong body. It may also help your child to feel connected with you and engaged in the shared activity. In fact, researchers found that when infants who were in an institution received an additional 20 min of tactile stimulation (touch) per day for 10 weeks, they subsequently scored higher on developmental assessments (Parenting for Brain). 

*It’s important to keep in mind, however, that some children do not like to be touched for a variety of reasons including sensory differences. Do what’s best for your child to help him feel comfortable, connected and cared for!