"What if I was to tell you that a game of peek-a-boo could change the world?" asks seven-year-old Molly Wright, one of the youngest-ever TED speakers. Breaking down the research-backed ways parents and caregivers can support children's healthy brain development, Wright highlights the benefits of play on lifelong learning, behavior and well-being, sharing effective strategies to help all kids thrive by the age of five. She's joined onstage by one-year-old Ari and his dad, Amarjot, who help illustrate her big ideas about brain science.
Peek-a-boo is more than just a fun game for children. For little ones, it helps with cognitive development, object permanence, social skills, and emotional bonding with caregivers. The act of playing peek-a-boo stimulates their brains by creating anticipation, surprise, and laughter.
For seniors, engaging in playful activities like peek-a-boo can indeed be beneficial too. While it might seem a bit unconventional, the key elements of the game—laughter, social interaction, and cognitive engagement—are valuable for brain health at any age. Playing games and engaging in social interactions can help maintain cognitive function, improve mood, and provide a sense of connection.
In essence, play isn't just for kids; it’s a healthy, enriching activity throughout life!