It’s a Woman’s World: Study: Cooing helps baby’s brain

Cooing to your infant in baby talk might seem silly, but a new study shows it can actually stimulate your baby’s brain.

Japanese researchers came to this conclusion after studying 20 infants between 2 and 9 days old. While the babies slept, their mothers read them a story, first in baby talk and then in an adult voice. Sensors that monitored blood oxygenation in the front of the brain were placed on the babies’ foreheads and revealed that the infants were more responsive to baby talk.

The results of this study, which were published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, highlight the importance of early communication with your infant. Even in the first few months of life, your infant wants to engage you in conversation.

If you are a parent of an infant, this study should encourage you to seize every opportunity to communicate with your baby. According to the Nemours Foundation, there are several ways you can communicate with your infant during the first few months.

“First, remember that your baby wants to hear your voice, so talk, coo and sing as often as you can. Point out objects and identify them for your infant. Read to your baby to stimulate the brain at an early age.

“Also, engage your infant in conversation. If your baby makes a sound, repeat it and wait for a response. This form of interaction teaches your baby about tone, pacing and taking turns when talking to someone. It also shows your infant that you are interested in him or her and can be trusted.

“Finally, celebrate communication milestones. During the first few months, your baby should be able to respond to loud noises, smile at the sound of your voice and pay attention to new faces and surroundings.