GROWING BRAINS
HOW MUCH DOES A 3-YEAR-OLD BRAIN WEIGH?
A new born babies brain weighs 400g while an adult brain is 1.4 kg. Up until the 1960’s, it was thought that the brain only grew during childhood with the most growth being by the age of 3 when the brain weighs 1.1kg!
DOES THE BRAIN STOP GROWING?
It is true that in the early years, the brain does the most growing. We know now that the brain continues to change throughout adolescence and adulthood. As we learn new things, we can create and strengthen neural pathways and networks in the brain.
IS YOUR BRAIN LIKE A PIECE OF PLASTIC THAT KEEPS EXPANDING?
Neuro describes the nervous system in the brain. Plasticity might make us think of the brain as being “plastic”. The definition of plasticity is, "when something can be shaped into something else or “moulded” without it breaking". As we gain new experiences as adults, some connections are strengthened while others are eliminated.
WHAT CAN WE DO TO KEEP CHANGING OUR BRAIN?
1. Adequate sleep to reset your brain connections
2. Reading
3. Movement and exercise…..
HOW CAN APPLIED TECHNIQUES TRAINING PROGRAMS HELP WITH NEUROPLASTICITY?
Life-long learning is important for brain development, but if you have an interest in the topic, you are more likely to focus, which will enhance your neuroplasticity. Look at the ideas and solutions offered in ADHD/ASD – The Game Plan, SIMPLY 1-2-3 Behaviour Support 3 to 11-year-old for parents and carers or teachers and educators and SURVIVING YOUR ADOLESCENTS workshops.
Stress diminishes neuroplasticity. Emotional Freedom Techniques is a gentle, non-invasive technique to identify where your stress is coming. EFT Tapping! workshops help you to change old patterns by using somatic stimulation by tapping on “acupressure” points on the face and upper body while saying exactly how you are feeling. It’s hard to feel bad when you are feeling good!
So, as adults, life-long learning helps us to change our brains to adapt to the changing environment. These changes happen whether we want it to or not, so it is essential to find things that keep you motivated and alert to get the most out of your brain!
For information on Applied Techniques Training’s programs visit our website. www.appliedtechniques.net
