Our experiences and surroundings play a big role in how our brains make connections, which is called synaptogenesis. This is when synapses, or the links between neurons (the brain's working units), are created. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Neural Activity:

   • During early childhood, especially around the ages of 2 to 3 years, active neurons can create about 20,000 synapses. That's a lot of connections!

2. Sensory Stimulation:

   • Being in a rich and engaging environment can boost synapse growth by 20% to 30%. This means that kids who are exposed to more activities and stimuli make more connections in their brains compared to those who aren't.

3. Social Interaction:

   • Having social experiences, like playing and interacting with others, can increase the formation of synapses by 40%. This is particularly true in parts of the brain, like the prefrontal cortex, which helps with decision-making.

4. Stress and Adversity:

   • On the flip side, long-term stress can slow down synapse formation by up to 30%. This can make it harder for people to manage their emotions and think clearly.

These points show just how much our experiences and environments matter in shaping how our brains develop.