The teen brain
Adolescence is a time where the brain undergoes unparalleled changes.
Different parts of the brain are learning to communicate with each other and make connections.
Allowing young people to turn thoughts, feelings, sights and experiences into action.
The teen brain takes in massive amounts of information from all around.
It is highly flexible as it decides what to learn from, what to keep
and what to get rid of
It's all part of a process known as, pruning.
Certain parts of the brain learn more rapidly than others.
Sometimes this can lead to heightened emotions and better coordination.
The reasoning center of the brain often develops at a slower pace
but that doesn't mean teens can't reason.
They can!
They just do so best when they are calm.
The brain continues maturing until about age 25.
Parents can make a big difference in the support of healthy brain growth.
The home environment strongly influences teen well being.
Balance love with rules to create a supportive foundation for your teens.
Provide new, healthy experiences to prevent teens from seeking risky thrills.
Encourage them to get involved in a range of activities, hobbies,
or other forms of creative expression.
Establish good sleep habits to get the mind to recover and grow.
Create bedtime routines, keep digital devices out of the bedroom
and take time to wind down.
Exercise provides energy and health benefits to both body and mind.
Encourage an active lifestyle through family walks, bike rides,
team or club sports, or even dancing the night away
Brains get nourishment from balanced diets that include whole grains
fruits and vegetables, lean meats nuts and fish.
Offer healthy options, cook meals together, and put the breaks on junk food.
Stress can also impact brain development
Develop a plan to manage stress that includes relaxation strategies like yoga or mindfulness
As well as healthy outlets to release emotion like writing, reading, or journaling.
Protect the brain from injury including harm from drugs and other substances.
Encourage seatbelt and helmet use
and model healthy and safe choices.
Use your parenting superpowers to support your teen super learners.
The positive lessons they learn now will last them a lifetime.