Language as a Tool to Build Relationships

Mirror Neurons and The Importance of Books

Mirror neurons are special nerve cells in the brain that make humans com- passionate and responsive creatures. These cells react not only when we experience suffering, pain or joy our- selves, but also when we perceive these sensations in someone else through verbal and non-verbal communication (Graf & Seide, 2018). An important way to develop mirror neurons is through shared books and stories. From birth, humans are equipped with mirror neurons but the ability to reflect does not develop on its own. A child needs a partner and a form of communication they understand. A story with diverse characters and content can provoke thoughts and conversations with the child. With toddlers, it is the family who activates the possibility of mirror actions (Cum- mins, 2001). The child must first learn to understand and feel the feelings of others. Researchers assume that mirror neurons are fully developed between the ages of three and four years. From this point on, a child has their own, independent view of the world (Graf & Seide, 2018).