We have all seen the obsessive mothers who subject their children to all sorts of programs aimed at developing brilliance in their children. So what is the single most important thing to give your child to ensure that their academic and/or artistic potential is realised.

Structured playgroup?
Expensive psychologically sound toys?
Intensive development programs?
Get them playing a musical instrument?
Expose them to great art and beauty?

well all of these things might be of benefit but the single most important thing that ensures that your child maximises their intellectual/artistic potential is a secure relationship with adults that adore them. This is the finding of Dr Eric Knudsen of Stanford University School of Medicine. He found that it is the earliest years of life that determine a persons ability to learn.

The important lesson is that a cardboard box may be as good as an expensive toy in developing your childs intellect and creativity. If they feel loved and supported they will benefit from even the simplest of toys. If not, the most expensive of toys and development programs will be limited value. He says

It's all about playing with your child. A child's eventual ability to learn calculus or a second language starts with the neurons that are shaped by positive interactions with nurturing adults.

Recognition of the importance of brain development in the under 4's has lead to the formation of the Council for Early Learning in Washington. The dark lord of computing, who has returned from the dark side to establish the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has provided support. Long time advocates for improving K-12 education have come to the conclusion that they are starting to late.

To quote Dr Jack Shonkoff, chair of the national Scientific Council on the Developing Child

The key issue is the nature of kids' relationships with the important people in their lives. It's not about toys its about the human connection.

Read more here