A pediatrician on Saturday, 31 May, shared the link between nutrition and a child's brain development.

At an interactive play workshop held in Taguig, Dr. Josie Eusebio, a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, stressed how the early childhood years -- especially between the ages of one to three — are a critical window for a child's brain development.

Eusebio explained that a child's brain grows to 80 percent of its adult size by the age of three.

During this period, the brain forms more than one million neural connections every second--laying the foundation for essential cognitive, language, and emotional skills.

"The brain's neural connections are strengthened by consistent, positive daily experiences, responsive caregiving, and proper nutrition, making early childhood a vital window for shaping long-term learning potential," Eusebio said.

"Through simple activities and by prioritizing good nutrition, parents can support their child's cognitive growth at the peak of their child's brain development," he added.

Eusebio noted that during the third year of life, the brain continues to grow through three essential processes — neurogenesis (brain cells are born), synaptogenesis (formation of brain connections), and myelination (speed of connections within the brain) — which enhance the brain's ability to process and retain information.

According to the health expert, these biological processes form the basis for how children think, remember, and learn.

"Brain growth in early childhood is rapid, and what parents do during this stage matters," he pointed out.

"Simple activities like tracing, sensory play, and asking thoughtful questions help build the essential skills that support faster learning," he added.

Eusebio stressed that good nutrition — including a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats — is also essential for brain development in children, providing the necessary nutrients for cognitive growth, memory, and learning.