Hugging Develops Brain of Kids and Nurtures them into Smarter Individuals

Neucrad Health India News Desk July 20, 2019

Do you love hugging your tiny tot and spend time with her whenever you get a chance? Do you enjoy embracing your little munchkin and offer as much physical contact as possible? If these are related to you, then you are on the perfect track, and you should continue with these activities as much as possible. According to the latest study conducted by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio, the brain development of babies occur at a faster pace, the more you hug them. Physical contact with parents during the developmental years is essential for the adequate growth and development of kids. 125 babies born at the hospital got subjected to a study, and the results were fascinating. Babies manifested stronger brain response when they received more affection from parents or hospital staff. The study also established that premature babies responded less to physical contact than full-term babies.

Role of Oxytocin in Embryonic Brain Development

Oxytocin is a unique hormone as well as neurotransmitter secreted by the pituitary gland. Researchers first identified this hormone in 1906 and recognised its role in childbirth in mammals. It helps in the contraction of the uterus during the labour and lactation. However, scientists have now established its significance in social interaction and developing a bond between two individuals. It is the reason, many scientists term this chemical as “the love hormone”. Oxytocin even stimulates trust among individuals, and it is present in both the sexes. The brain rewards us with the release of oxytocin when we feel loved or cared for by others. 

Recent studies have pointed out that this hormone is also essential for embryonic brain development. It plays a crucial role in the formation of a vital blood vessel in the pituitary gland, which regulates several feelings, including stress, growth, and reproduction. It is the reason scientists are stressing on the physical contact between parents and children during the early developmental days.

Benefits of Hugging Your Baby

Detailed below are some of the benefits of regularly hugging and embracing your baby.

Hugging Develops Smarter child

Latest research has proved that a 20-second hug to your child daily can lead to sensory stimulation for enhanced motor and cognitive development. Hugging is a form of skin contact, which stimulates the brain to develop into a healthy and strong body. It was found that many babies in some Eastern European orphanages spend almost 22 to 23 hours in a day in their cribs. They remain deprived of any human contact for most of the days. The management at the orphanages uses propped bottles for feeding the babies. In these circumstances, many babies suffer from developmental issues, including impaired cognitive development. Researchers have also confirmed that all types of touches do not provide beneficial results. Gentle hugging and caressing can only stimulate the brain positively.

Hugging Keeps Children Healthy

As already pointed out, embracing a kid frequently helps in the release of oxytocin, which in turns boosts the immune system. It also decreases the plasma levels of thyroid hormones and aids in the quick healing of wounds. Studies suggest that children remaining in close physical contacts with their parents fall sick less frequently than those who remain deprived of hugs. 

Hugging Prevents Temper Tantrums in Kids

Frequents hugging also has a positive effect on the emotion of children. In many cases, it is seen that a caring hug from parents can calm down a fussy child instantaneously. Though many parents believe that, hugging a tantrum throwing kid can encourage bad behaviour; in actuality, it has a meltdown effect on children. Hugging makes them less stubborn and minimised their nagging nature. Child counsellors always encourage parents to spend more time with their kids and indulge in physical touch.

So, parents start spending adequate time with kids and embrace them whenever you get an opportunity. It will make your kids emotionally stronger, smarter, and healthy.