Question

what are some links that Proper nutrition during childhood can positively affect a child's social behaviors and development?

Answer 1

There is a strong relationship between nutrition and the social behavior and development of children. Though genes and environment also play a role in shaping a child's development, nutrition in the early years is linked to their health and academic performance. A child's early years begin before birth itself. Proper nutrition during pregnancy leads to proper brain development. Likewise, breast milk positively impacts a child's development

A balanced diet consists of carbohydrates, protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins. Mothers following a nutritious diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding lead to fewer cases of illness in infants and build up their immunity in years to come. In the later years continuing a healthy diet ensures an increase in child activity levels, curiosity, cognitive functioning, and social interactions. Nutrition is directly linked to the academic performance of a child. What an infant eats, say at five months will affect the learning ability later. High IQ, proper cognitive development are seen in children having subjected to a nutritional diet in the early years.

Children also observe and imitate eating habits of elders. They select similar patterns thus creating a positive social model. Healthy children are found to have better social interaction which includes friendliness, active social play, and exploratory behavior.