Answered by Team ParentCircle
Dear Parent,
It does seem like so much is determined by our genes! Today, science informs us that it’s not either-or, but rather the interaction of nature and nurture that influences behavior and development. Yes, children are born with a certain personality – they may be born an introvert or an extrovert, they may be born more sensitive, be more into music and art, or sports, or academics.
The child may be born with certain genes and a certain brain. But the child’s brain is still developing after birth, and it reaches maximum size around age five. So, it is the experiences of the child that shape the brain after birth. After all, it is the brain that controls one’s emotions, behavior, learning, thoughts, and attitude.
Research studies today show that the brain is neuroplastic, which means it continues to adapt and be shaped based on one’s experiences throughout one’s life. So, if the child is born with a certain trait, like being more sensitive, then with the right kind of environment and experiences, they can build neural pathways that will help them overcome or bypass their inborn trait.
Similarly, if the child does not receive the right kind of stimulation, parts of the brain begin to die. For example, if a child is born deaf, even if given a hearing aid later in life, they will have difficulty with speech, as the part of the brain responsible for hearing has been taken over for some other use, such as visual processing.
Research studies also show that when a child does not have a secure attachment with anyone, their brain development is affected. So, as a parent, ensure that you provide a secure environment for your child to thrive and grow. How well you nurture your child will make all the difference!
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