Build a Brain Program: Empowering Parents, Building Brighter Futures
At Norman Regional Hospital, we believe that early childhood development starts at birth. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Build a Brain, Build a Life, Build a Community® program—an innovative initiative designed to equip parents and caregivers with essential tools and resources to maximize their baby’s brain development during the first three years of life.
Why Early Brain Development Matters
Research shows that 85% of a baby’s brain is built in the first three years of life. During this time, simple interactions like talking, reading, singing and playing create the foundation for lifelong learning and healthy brain development. Recognizing this, Norman Regional has made it a priority to empower parents as their child’s first teachers.
“Parents are baby’s first teachers,” said Ariel Anglin, Health Promotions Specialist at Norman Regional. “We want to equip parents and caregivers from the very beginning so they can feel confident and play an active role right away.”
How the Program Works
The Build a Brain program provides parents with complimentary resources to support their baby’s early development, including:
- Informational Video: A short, engaging video highlights the importance of interaction and communication with your baby, even during routine activities.
- Brain Bag: A resource kit that includes the Baby Steps booklet, which tracks developmental milestones from birth to kindergarten.
- Email Updates: Families can sign up to receive guidance on key developmental milestones in areas like social/emotional, cognitive, language/communication, and physical development.
A Family-Centered Approach
This program isn’t just about education—it’s about fostering strong family bonds. Jamie Barnes-Polski, nurse manager for the Women’s and Children’s Unit, emphasized the importance of personalized support:
“Moms and babies are learning together. Things are always changing in healthcare and with best practices, so we want families to have everything they need to feel equipped to care for their babies,” Barnes-Polski said. “This program is right in line with our mission to provide personalized healthcare with compassion and excellence. It doesn’t get more personal than this.”
A Success Story: The Hopkins Family
The first family to experience Build a Brain was the Hopkins family. Parents Kylie and Shane Hopkins welcomed their second son at Norman Regional and appreciated the program’s focus on brain development.
“I think it’s great the hospital is trying to get that information out there,” said Shane Hopkins. “I think it’s going to be very helpful those first few years, stuff we’ve tried to do with Krew already… talking to him a lot, reading books to him every night.”
Learn More About Build a Brain
Ready to help your baby thrive? Visit BuildaBrainNow.com to explore the resources, sign up for milestone updates, and start building a strong foundation for your child’s future.
Build a Brain, Build a Life, Build a Community®—because every baby deserves the best start in life.
