For the first year or two of life outside the womb, our brains are in the most impressionable state they will ever be in. A baby's brain is immediately shaped by interacting with their environment. As a parent, one can have a large influence on their newborns first encounters with learning.

The mind learns optimally when appropriately challenged in an environment that encourages taking risks. However, under perceived threat, the mind does not perform as well. This makes it harder to learn when you are nervous, stressed, or not feeling well.

Before a child learns to talk, they experience emotions. Emotions are another source for improving memory. People are better at recalling stories that held strong feelings. The emotional context plays an important role in the learning process. People with excellent memories have multiple interests. We naturally remember what we are interested in. As a parent, it is crucial to teach your child the value of learning.

Motivation is the key to learning. You can help your child to discover this thirst of knowledge before they even enter school. Here are some key steps in preparing your child to be a stellar student:

1. Fill your home with reading. Read to your child daily. Fill your home with reading material such as novels, newspapers, and educational magazines. A child is influenced by their surroundings. When a son or daughter sees a parent reading at a young age, it makes an impression. As parents, we can foster that with a love for learning. Parents are the most important modeling agent in a child???s life.

2. Encourage your child to explore his or her interests. If you have a son who loves animals, offer him some educational books about animals. If he's young, allow him to explore the world Of the National Geographic Magazines. You could also direct him to some websites that explore animal facts. You're enthusiasm over your child is motivation in itself.

3. Provide play opportunities that offer different types of learning styles. Play is one of the most powerful vehicles through which children master new skill, concepts, and experiences. This will help them solve the challenges they meet in school. Through the use of blocks, your child will develop his or her creative expression and problem solving skills. A cash register would help them recreate their own experiences. However, boxes of various sizes can be great toys that encourage your child to be creative in his or her creations.

4. When your child starts school, make sure that they are organized. An organized folder lends To an organized mind.

5. Celebrate achievements. Reward your child for large and small achievements, whether it's finishing a book or completing a major assignment in school. Positive reinforcement encourages a child to continue to challenge themselves.

6. Use everyday event as learning opportunities.Encourage your child to explore his/her world. Continually ask questions and make connections that build upon their existing knowledge. The brain learns through associations.

As a central role model, moms and dads have the responsibility to create an environment that fosters a love for learning.

Alli Ross is the webmaster at the Baby Names Box - Where you can explore over 6,000 baby names and their meanings. Read articles ranging from parenting and family to home and garden or find the perfect recipe. Be sure to say hi to GranMamma!