There is no doubt that this age of technology has made our kids pretty media savvy.  A 10-year-old can type – scratch that – text 60 words per minute using a language that eludes most grown-ups. Even babies are being exposed to technology, with music playing while in the womb and infants watching videos in the hopes of becoming a little Einstein.  And we, as parents, are demanding more.

This baby video industry has grown tremendously.  Current estimates have placed the baby video industry at $1.5 billion dollars.  In fact, the industry has expanded beyond DVD’s and video with the launch of the first subscription based baby network called BabyFirstTV geared towards infants 6 months to three years. For $4.99 per month, parents of babies between the ages of 6 months and three years can receive baby TV programs 24/7.

But the big question is whether plopping Junior in front of the TV is enough to stimulate cognitive brain development.   Experts largely say, “No!”    After extensive studies, scientists say watching television, even educational television, before the age of 2 does not stimulate brain development.  In fact, any type of television viewing during infancy could potentially set back development (find more on this topic at http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2007-04-02-smart-baby-toys_N.htm).  These studies prompted the American Academy of Pediatrics to strongly discourage parents from exposing their children to television watching before the age of two.

Now I know this is disappointing news for those of us have created a library filled with Video Einsteins and Beethovens.  Still, there are easy and effective methods parents can take that will stimulate cognitive development and help ensure that our little munchkins are happy and healthy!

Talk it Up

We call it Baby Talk! And while it can be a little obnoxious for love struck grown-ups to exchange, it is exactly what baby needs.  But talking to baby can be more than “snickle pickles”, “snuggle wuggles”, it can also be a casual as “let’s go the store”, or “look at the blue sky”, and “let’s count the flowers!”  The reason why television learning is not effective is because it is not interactive.  Children need that interaction to increase their cognitive abilities.

Read Every Day

It’s never too early for story time!  Board or cloth books with colorful pictures are perfect for newborns and toddlers – plus they make for great teething toys!  As children grow into their toddler years, they love to hear stories over and over again.  Although you may be sick of reading “Goodnight Moon” for the 10,000^th time, feel confident that your child is gaining important cognitive abilities by this repetitive action.

Sing Songs

Singing songs together is one of the best ways to interact with your child – particularly if hand motions can be incorporated.  “Patty Cake” and “Where is Thumpkin” are tried and true classics that babies love! And just like books, the more often they are repeated, the more it stimulates cognitive development.   But don’t worry parents.  You don’t have to sacrifice your sanity so that Junior can listen to Barney favorites 20 times.  Throw on some of your grown-up classics like the Eagles or Police!  Both of you can be entertained! (You should hear my 4-year-old belt out “Roxanne” in the bathtub!)

More Peas and Carrots

Good nutrition is not only important for growing bodies – but also for growing minds. Your pediatrician will work with you on the best methods for developing a healthy diet.  There is no other time in a child’s life where good nutrition is more essential.  Starting early with a good diet will help ensure good health and nutrition as well as ensure that the brain is getting all of the necessary nutrients for the most optimal growth.

Make Sure the Environment is Stable

A child’s brain development is probably most stimulated by his environment.    Ensuring that child care is continuous and predictable is vital.  In addition, avoiding harsh or loud language can have a very negative effect.  And frankly, too much TV time and not enough interaction can deter brain development.

So what’s the larger lesson?  There are very few quick fixes in life.  There is no magic diet pill,  infomercials will not make us rich,  and watching “educational videos” will not result in a child prodigy.  As usual, it’s up to us, as parents to ensure or kiddos have the right environment for optimal cognitive development.  Keeping in mind, however, that even our best efforts will not necessarily lead to a baby Einstein.

Paige McCoy Smith is the Not-So-Perfect Parent, appearing Mondays and Wednesdays on "Good Morning Texas."   E-mail o8sis