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14 Hudson Valley Baby Guide P laytime and interactive toys are important for parents who are looking to give their children a head start in life. But these products aren't the only way to help stimulate a baby's brain and eye development — nutrition is important, too. A baby's brain and eyes depend critically on nutrition and there are specific nutrients which have been shown to play a role in brain and eye development. The importance of lutein During the critical time of brain and eye development, lutein and DHA are important nutrients, yet lutein has gone virtually unnoticed by parents. Lutein is found in foods such as leafy greens, certain fruits and eggs. Emerging science demonstrates that lutein helps protect important cells in the eye. Now, new research from Tufts University demonstrates — for the first time — that lutein is not only present in the eyes, but it is also present in the infant brain. The regions of the brain where lutein is found are associated with memory and learning. "Moms should be aware of the emerging research on lutein," said Dr. Alanna Levine, a pediatrician and mother of two. "Moms in my practice ask me every day about ways to promote development in their children. Many focus on products, games, and toys and sometimes overlook nutrition." "Peek-a-boo" encourages brain development "In addition to the right nutrients, playing together does encourage brain and eye development," said Levine. "Rather than focusing on the latest toy, parents can do simple things like spending time with their children in front of a mirror, playing peek-a- boo or tracking the objects on a mobile." In their book, Creative Play for Your Baby, Christopher Clouder and Janni Nicol also praise simplicity, "A simple game, song or story leaves open and strengthens the capacities for imagination, creativity, empathy, wonder and fun that are far more important for the growing child as a foundation for future lifelong learning." Lutein and infant formula Prior to the introduction of solid foods, babies can get lutein from a few sources, including breast milk Infant brain and eye development It's not just fun and games Rebekah has mastered the art of picking up bits of cereal while having her picture taken. photo by Jeremy Landolfa, Visual Concepts Photography, jeremylandolfa.com