Every parent wants the best for their little one — from the cutest onesies to the comfiest strollers. But beyond all the baby gear, there’s one thing that’s always top of mind: your baby’s IQ.
You’ve probably found yourself Googling: Can I boost my baby’s brainpower? Should I play Mozart? Feed them superfoods? Read Shakespeare in the womb?
Before you rush to stock up on flashcards for your three-month-old, get the facts from the expert! Dr. Lee LJ, Chief Scientific Officer of Nutrigene, breaks down everything you need to know about your baby’s IQ — from genetics and nutrition to sleep habits — so you can focus on raising a happy, curious, and bright little one.
Everyday Ways to Grow Your Baby’s IQ
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Genetics and Cognitive Development
Q: Does genetics play a role in determining baby’s IQ?
Dr. Lee LJ: Yep — genes definitely have a say in your baby’s IQ. Science shows that intelligence is partly written into your child’s DNA. Certain genes can give your little one a head start when it comes to thinking skills and learning potential. But here’s the real deal: genes are just one piece of the puzzle. The way you raise your child — all those early experiences, playtime, conversations, and even the books you read together — also have a huge impact. So while your baby might be born with some brainy genes, it’s the mix of nature and nurture that really shapes their smarts!
Q: Are there any genetic or hereditary factors that play a significant role in determining a child’s IQ?
Yes, genetics does play a role in a child’s IQ. Some genes help with brain development, but it’s not all about DNA. Environmental factors like education, experiences, and parenting are just as important in shaping your baby’s intellectual abilities.
Nutrition and Cognitive Growth
Q: What are the best foods for baby’s optimal cognitive growth?
Dr. Lee LJ: If you want to give your baby’s brain the best boost, it all starts with what’s on the menu! In the early months, breast milk or formula is the real MVP — it’s packed with everything your baby needs for a strong start. Once solids join the party, aim for variety. Think brain-friendly bites like fatty fish (hello, omega-3s), eggs (packed with protein and choline), and lots of colourful fruits and veggies for those must-have vitamins and antioxidants. Whole grains, dairy, and lean meats are great too! Just go slow when introducing new foods, and when in doubt, check in with your doctor to make sure your little one’s getting exactly what they need to grow and glow.
Q: How important is nutrition in supporting brain development for a newborn baby?
Dr. Lee LJ: Nutrition is absolutely key when it comes to your baby’s brain development. In the first few years, your baby’s brain is growing at an incredibly fast pace, and making sure they get the right nutrients helps set them up for cognitive success.
Essential nutrients like proteins, healthy fats (think omega-3s), vitamins (like vitamin D and B vitamins), and minerals (iron and zinc) are all crucial for that brain boost. Breast milk or infant formula is the go-to for newborns, as it provides the perfect mix of nutrients. As your baby starts eating solids, make sure to offer a balanced mix of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to keep supporting their brain.
And of course, when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to check in with your paediatrician to get advice tailored to your little one’s needs. The earlier you set the foundation, the better their brain development will be!
Play, Learning, and Cognitive Development
Q: Are there specific types of toys or games that are beneficial for boosting a baby’s IQ?
Dr. Lee LJ: While there’s no magical toy that will directly boost your baby’s IQ, certain toys and games can definitely help support their brain development. Think of toys that promote sensory exploration, like rattles, textured balls, or soft toys – these stimulate your baby’s senses and kickstart cognitive development. Shape-sorting toys, puzzles, and building blocks are great for developing problem-solving skills and helping them understand space. For auditory development, simple musical instruments like drums or xylophones help with rhythm and sound recognition. Open-ended toys, like dolls, stuffed animals, or pretend kitchen sets, are fantastic for imaginative play, which boosts creativity and language skills. At the end of the day, it’s the time spent playing and interacting with these toys that really makes a difference. The more engaged and varied the experiences, the better for your baby’s growing brain!
Q: Are there any brain-boosting exercises or activities that can be done during daily routines, such as feeding or bath time?
Yes! During feeding, chat to your baby, describe the food, and even try counting or naming objects. Bath time is great for sensory play, like splashing water and playing with toys. Singing songs and pointing out body parts also helps their brain grow.
Q: Are there any specific activities or games that can enhance a baby’s problem-solving and critical thinking skills, thus improving their IQ?
Simple puzzles, shape sorters, and stacking blocks are great for developing problem-solving skills. Games like peek-a-boo teach cause and effect, while reading and imaginative play help with language and critical thinking. These activities build cognitive skills while keeping things fun!
Language Development and Everyday Interactions
Q: Do everyday interactions like talking and reading actually improve my baby’s IQ?
Dr. Lee LJ: Yes, yes, and yes! Babies are like sponges. The more you talk, sing, and read to them, the more words they soak up. These simple daily interactions help develop language skills, emotional bonds, and cognitive abilities — all super important for boosting your baby’s IQ. So go ahead, narrate your grocery list, sing off-key lullabies, or read that same bedtime book for the hundredth time — it all counts!
Q: What are some practical, easy & at-home ways I can use to foster language development in my baby?
You can boost your baby’s language skills by talking to them all day, reading simple books, singing rhymes, and playing games like “Peek-a-boo.” Respond to their sounds and babbles, and expand on what they try to say. Keeping screen time low and focusing on real-life interactions is key!
Screen Time and Cognitive Development
Q: How much screen time is right for a toddler to not harm her cognitive development and IQ?
Dr. Lee LJ: The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) says kids between 18 to 24 months should only get a little screen time — and when they do, you should be watching right alongside them to help them make sense of what they’re seeing. Once your little one hits 2 to 5 years old, the AAP recommends keeping it to about an hour a day, and still co-watching when you can. Too much screen time at this age can get in the way of the real stuff that actually helps boost your baby’s IQ, like chatting, playing, exploring, and bonding with you. So the goal? Keep screens light and real-world fun heavy!
Environmental Factors and Parenting Influence
Q: One of my friends is a single mother. What is the role of family environment and social interaction in developing a baby’s intellectual growth and IQ?
A positive family environment is huge for your baby’s brain development. Talking, reading, and playing with your baby helps their language skills and cognitive abilities. Social interactions, whether with family or other kids, teach them important social skills and communication.
Q: Are there any specific parenting behaviours that my husband and I should refrain from that may hinder our child’s intellectual growth and IQ?
Avoid too much screen time, being overly protective, and putting unrealistic expectations on your baby. Let them explore, try new things, and solve problems on their own. A supportive and loving environment is the best way to help them grow mentally and emotionally.
Source: iStock
Multilingualism and Cognitive Abilities
Q: Hello! I’m a Malay, my husband is an Indian, our house help is Thai. Will exposure to multiple languages at such an age impact my baby’s cognitive abilities and IQ?
Yes, exposing your baby to multiple languages early on can actually boost their brainpower. It improves cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and could even make them better at school later on. Babies’ brains are great at picking up languages, so multilingual environments are a big plus!
Intellectual Development Milestones
Q: Which are the most important milestones I should be looking for in my baby’s 6-12 months of intellectual development?
By 6 months, your baby may start babbling and showing early signs of language development. Around 9-10 months, they might understand simple gestures like waving. By 12 months, they may try to mimic words and explore cause and effect, like dropping things to see what happens.
Pressure and Cognitive Development
Q: Will there be any potential negative & harmful effects of putting excessive pressure on my baby to increase her IQ?
Too much pressure can stress your baby out and hinder their natural curiosity. Babies learn best in a relaxed, loving environment where they can explore at their own pace. Focus on creating a supportive space that fosters natural growth and learning.
About Dr. Lee LJ
Dr. Lee LJ is the Chief Scientific Officer at Nutrigene, and she’s all about helping parents understand how genes and daily habits shape a child’s brain. With her background in developmental neuroscience and personalised nutrition, Dr. Lee shares simple, science-backed tips to support your child’s brain growth and boost their thinking skills.
You Don’t Need to Raise a Genius, Just a Happy Baby
When it comes to your baby’s IQ, there’s no secret formula, no perfect toy, and no quick-fix class. What really matters is showing up, tuning in, and filling your baby’s world with love, chatter, curiosity, and plenty of play. Rest assured, by simply being present and intentional, you’re already giving your child a solid foundation for a bright future.
For more parenting wisdom and expert-backed advice, visit sg.theasianparent.com.
