Tarun Nandi/Kolkata

At the age of just five months and 21 days, Inaya Afroz has earned a place in the Book of World Records for identifying 12 black-and-white flashcards, becoming the youngest baby to achieve this feat.

Inaya cannot yet speak properly or walk on her tiny feet. Yet, the little girl from Khanakul in West Bengal’s Hooghly district has surprised everyone with her ability to recognise pictures one after another.

Her achievement has brought immense joy to her family and neighbours, with celebrations sweeping across the locality. Many see her accomplishment as a reminder that even the earliest stages of childhood are filled with possibilities for learning and discovery.

Inaya, a resident of Saibona Uttarpara under Pole-II Gram Panchayat, achieved the record by identifying 12 black-and-white flashcards at this tender age.

Baby Inaya Afroz with her medal

According to her family, the Book of World Records has recognised her achievement in the category of "Youngest Baby to Identify 12 Black and White Flashcards." The certificate and medal confirming the record have since arrived at her home by post.

Her mother's dedication and persistent efforts played a key role in this achievement. When Inaya was barely three months old, her mother, Shabnur Sultana, began introducing her to pictures of animals, birds and everyday objects.

Gradually, she familiarised the baby with different images using black-and-white flashcards. Inaya began showing interest in the pictures, encouraging her mother to continue the exercise. Several moments from these learning sessions were recorded on camera and submitted for verification.

After the process of validation, official recognition of the little girl's achievement finally arrived at the family home.

Inaya's father, Sheikh Nazes Afroz, works in Kerala. Although away from home, he is delighted by his daughter's accomplishment and is eagerly looking forward to returning to spend time with her.

Family members say they began noticing Inaya's curiosity and interest in learning when she was only a few months old. They believe her mother's regular practice, patience and encouragement were instrumental in helping her achieve the distinction.

Child development experts emphasise that parents should be patient and appreciate even the smallest signs of learning in young children. Babies begin exploring their surroundings and responding to new experiences from an early age.

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A nurturing family environment, coupled with opportunities for age-appropriate stimulation, can help encourage this natural curiosity. Five-month-old Inaya's achievement is a heartwarming example of how a mother's patience and encouragement can turn early learning into a memorable milestone.