Volume 2 - Issue 2, March - April 2026

Infancy is a critical period for physical growth, brain development, and overall neurodevelopment. Adequate stimulation during the first two years of life plays a vital role in enhancing sensory, motor, cognitive, and socioemotional development. In the Indian context, several traditional caregiving practices such as infant massage,lullabies, storytelling, floor play, and caregiver infant interaction have been followed for generations. Although these practices are not formally structured as developmental interventions, they inherently provide multisensory stimulation that supports early development. The present review examines traditional Indian infant care practices and evaluates their potential as effective early stimulation strategies. Evidence from community-based studies, Anganwadi programmes, and recent Indian research is synthesised to understand their developmental significance. The review also explores the integration of these culturally rooted practices into low-cost stimulation kits and structured early childhood programmes to improve accessibility and adoption. The findings suggest that combining indigenous caregiving knowledge with scientific approaches can enhance infant development outcomes. Promoting culturally appropriate, affordable, and sustainable stimulation practices within families and public health systems can significantly strengthen early childhood care in India.

Lakshmi Priya R.J, Naveen Kumar M, Abirami M,"Early Childhood Stimulation Through Traditional Infant Care Practices in India : A Systematic Review" International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Research and Educational Development, V2(2): Page(1116-1120) Mar-Apr 2026. ISSN: 3107-6513. www.ijamred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.