Naturally, you want the best for your baby. You’ve already researched all the best baby gear and made plans for their nursery. But did you know you don’t have to wait ‘til your baby is born to give her a head start in life?

Science tells us that there are certain things you can start doing now that help enhance your baby’s brain development in the womb. You might be picturing yourself walking around with some headphones stretched around your bump playing some classical Mozart or Beethoven.

From the experts In 1993, a scientific journal introduced the “Mozart effect,” which suggested a relationship between listening to classical arrangements and higher intelligence. However, further studies revealed that “if classical music does make a difference in a baby’s IQ, it’s probably a very slight difference.” Stanford Health News , 2017

Turns out, classical concerts won’t do much in the way of improving your baby’s IQ. But here’s six simple ways that research says help boost brain development in utero.

1. Stay Active

Exercising and staying active is important for your body’s health, but studies show that it can also improve brain function. And it doesn’t take squats and burpees - a relaxing, 30-minute walk a few times a week will do the trick.

From the experts “Regular aerobic exercise during pregnancy is beneficial both for the mother and for the infant…studies demonstrated that the aerobic exercise during pregnancy improves brain functions of the offspring.” Scientific World Journal , 2012

Remember, always check with your doctor before incorporating a new exercise routine, especially during pregnancy. For some post-pregnancy exercise tips, check out 5 Exercises busy moms can do at home.

2. Eat eggs & fish

Egg yolks are full of choline, (a recommended vitamin for pregnant women) which has been shown to improve learning and memory in babies when taken during pregnancy. Some studies have even shown that choline changes the structure of brain cells, making them more supportive for cognitive development.

Some studies have linked DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) with better brain development. You can find DHA in many prenatal supplements, but you can also get it by including fish like salmon and sardines (fish that contain less mercury) in your diet.

3. Add a pre-natal supplement

Along with incorporating some vitamin-rich foods into your diet, make sure you add a prenatal supplement with Folate (A.K.A. B vitamin folic acid). Folic acid helps form healthy brain cells and getting the right amount of Folate has also been shown to lower the chances of your baby being diagnosed with autism.

4. Eliminate alcohol & nicotine

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest bet is to eliminate alcohol and nicotine entirely during pregnancy.

From the experts “Prenatal exposure to alcohol as the leading preventable cause of birth defects and intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities in children.” - American Academy of Pediatrics, 2015

Many studies have shown that women who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke during pregnancy have a higher risk for giving birth prematurely (along with a handful of other negative side effects like learning problems and decreased fetal breathing, So it’s best to stay away from smoking for your baby’s health—as well as your own.

5. Talk & read to your baby

Listening to classical music during pregnancy might not make much of a difference but talking to your baby can. Language learning begins in utero, and studies have shown that parents who talk and/or read to their baby throughout pregnancy promotes early word recognition after they’re born. Get some ideas for story time.

6. Get more sleep

Insomnia affects nearly 80% of pregnant women; you can’t sleep in the same positions you did pre-baby bump, your back hurts, you have to wake up to pee throughout the night…but staying well-rested is incredibly important.

Not only will sleep help boost your mood and fuel your immune system, but it also increases your chances for a healthy birth. With the right amount of sleep, your baby’s brain will have the time to properly grow in the womb and there’s less risk for post-birth developmental issues.

From the experts “Poor sleep and depression were both associated with increased risk for birth complications, when found separately and together…protecting sleep during pregnancy is not only good for a mother’s health, but her child’s health as well.” Psychology Today - Michael J. Breus, PhD,

7. Get prepared

Of course, once your baby arrives, her brain will still be developing—mostly during sleep. Continue her head start with the Zen Swaddle®. It’s gently weighted to mimic your touch and with consistent use, it can help your baby learn to self-soothe. The Zen Swaddle’s comforting pressure cuddles them to sleep, ensuring you can both stay well-rested for all the exciting milestones ahead. Here’s how it works.