Children born in these three months are more intelligent
The impact of a child's birth month on their cognitive abilities is back on the agenda: Recent research shows that children born in the late autumn and winter months may have a slight advantage in intelligence tests compared to their peers.
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How the month of birth can affect the mental development of individuals continues to be a subject of debate in the scientific world for many years. Recent comprehensive studies have increased curiosity in this area. In a study conducted jointly by scientists from Harvard and Queensland universities, the development of more than 21 thousand children from birth to age 7 was observed regularly.
As a result of the research, it was determined that children born especially in October, November, and December stood out in both physical measurements and cognitive tests. These children are born on average slightly taller and heavier than their peers born in the summer months during the newborn period, and their head circumferences are slightly larger.
The most remarkable finding of the study was made when the children reached the age of 7. Those born in the winter months achieved a small but statistically significant score difference in the mental performance tests applied, unlike those born in other months.
EXPERTS POINT TO THE AGE EFFECT
Experts emphasize that this situation is related to the “relative age effect” that children encounter at school rather than a genetic factor. In the education system, an age difference of 6-8 months can occur between children depending on the months they start class. These few months at an early age play a decisive role in basic mental functions such as language skills, learning capacity, and attention. As a result, children who are older in the classroom can show higher success in tests.
SEASONAL FACTORS DURING PREGNANCY ARE ALSO IMPORTANT
Another dimension of the issue is related to the development of babies in the womb. The final stages of pregnancy for mothers who give birth in the winter months mostly coincide with the summer months. During this process, being exposed to more sunlight, thus increasing vitamin D levels and having easier access to fresh food, positively supports the baby's development.
Additionally, the fact that the first months of pregnancy do not coincide with periods when some epidemic diseases are common can also positively affect the baby's development. Researchers state that the main motivation for the success of children born in the winter months is not genetic, but environmental and educational factors.
In conclusion, children born in late autumn and winter months may have some advantages; however, it should not be forgotten that a complex interaction lies behind these differences.