Where Is
Blue Bird
Written by: Raya Halet & Julie Mallon
Illustrated by: Suzanne Darkan
First Ever Science-Based Children's Book
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First Ever Science-Based Children's Book 〰️
Discover the wonder of early childhood development and nurturing secure attachment with our evidence-based baby book. Delve into the fascinating world of brain science as we guide you through the important milestones and stages of your baby's growth. This beautifully illustrated book provides comprehensive and accessible information grounded in scientific research, offering parents a deep understanding of how their interactions shape their baby's brain and promote secure attachment.
About the Book
"Where is Blue Bird" is a delightful book crafted by Raya Halet and Julie Mallon, with charming illustrations by Suzanne Darkan. Designed with babies aged 0-6 months in mind, the book aims to make a positive impact on their daily summer routines. This book provides an engaging and interactive experience that captures their imagination while fostering a sense of adventure.
What are cognitive leaps?
Cognitive leaps, often referred to as developmental milestones, are significant advancements in your baby's cognitive abilities and brain development. These leaps represent key stages in your child's growth, characterized by notable changes in thinking, perception, and problem-solving skills. While the concept of "cognitive leaps" is more of a popular term than a strictly scientific one, it reflects real changes in a baby's brain function.
Understanding cognitive leaps from a brain science perspective can help you as a parent and caregivers appreciate the dynamic nature of a baby's brain development. It underscores the importance of providing a stimulating and nurturing environment to support these critical stages of growth.
Your understanding of where your baby is both developmentally and cognitively will help you make sense of what cannot often be a challenging time and helping both you and your baby make sense of what is happening within their world.
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Cognitive leaps correspond to specific periods when a baby's brain undergoes rapid growth and reorganisation. During these times, there is an increase in the number of neural connections (synapses) and the development of new brain structures.
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Cognitive leaps are associated with the acquisition of new skills and abilities. For example, a baby might develop the ability to grasp objects, recognize familiar faces, or understand cause-and-effect relationships during these leaps.
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These leaps often involve improvements in sensory perception. Babies may become more attuned to their environment, show increased responsiveness to stimuli, and develop better sensory discrimination skills.
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Cognitive leaps are linked to specific cognitive milestones, such as reaching for objects, babbling, or showing signs of early problem-solving. These milestones indicate that your baby's brain is maturing and gaining new capabilities.
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Cognitive leaps are a reflection of your baby's capacity to learn from their experiences and adapt to their surroundings. They signify your baby's increasing ability to process and make sense of the world around them.
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It's important to note that not all babies progress at the same rate, and there is considerable individual variation in reaching these cognitive leaps. Factors like genetics, environment, and early experiences can influence the timing and extent of these developments.
Julie Mallon
Julie is a highly-qualified professional with over 30 years of experience, previously a Nurse, Midwife, and Health Visitor (UK). Now Qualified both as a Gentle Sleep Coach and a Sleep Consultant with the international Parenting and maternity insights (now the International Parenting and Health Insitute). Julie is the leading infant sleep expert in the UAE. Known for her regular Sleep Clinic on Dubai Eye and has been published in many regional publications.
Known as the Resident Sleep Expert; on Dubai Eye 103.8 FM, Julie takes every opportunity to discuss and promote good sleep hygiene and the benefits of a good night’s sleep. As a clear authority in the field of healthy sleep practice, she is in high demand to speak at industry events. She spoke at the 2022 US Sleep Symposium in North Carolina, USA; discussed sleep deprivation and leadership at the prestigious Leadership School in Armenia, and most recently spoke at the Children’s Mental Health Symposium in Dublin, Ireland.
Raya Halet
Raya Halet is the founder and host of They Say It Takes A Village, which is a homegrown podcast that she launched to provide a directory of all things parenting in the UAE in the hopes of creating the proverbial ‘Village’.
She interviews experts across the country who help provide honest insights and trusted recommendations for parents as they navigate this incredible journey of parenthood. With a background in health science and 15 years of regional experience, ‘They Say It Takes A Village’ podcast is a fusion of her passion for motherhood alongside her clinical background brought together to provide a little black book of top tier contacts. With a diverse scope of topics, the podcast dives deep into conversations that need to be had and highlighted. ”We are blessed to live in a country that boasts world-class expertise” says Raya, which she hopes to showcase in her podcast. “Parenting shouldn’t be solo; as they say, it takes a village to raise a child.
Suzanne Darkan
Suzanne Darken is a talented illustrator and the visionary founder of Doodles for Change. Her passion for art and her commitment to making a positive impact on society converge beautifully in her work. Suzanne has recently accomplished a significant milestone by illustrating her first children's book, titled "Where is Blue Bird?"
With a vibrant and captivating artistic style, Suzanne brings the story to life, capturing the imaginations of young readers. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Suzanne Darken is a compassionate advocate for mental health wellness and positive change. Through her illustrations and the platform she has created with Doodles for Change, she strives to raise awareness and promote understanding about mental health issues. Suzanne firmly believes in the transformative power of art and its ability to inspire empathy, ignite conversations, and encourage individuals to take action.