How a Child Learns

Children progress through various stages of development

From the moment a child is born, their brain is already equipped with an astonishing 100 billion neurons – an entire galaxy of nerve cells. These neurons are ready to communicate through electrical signals, forming intricate pathways within the brain. The first five years of life are crucial for neurological development, as the brain undergoes rapid growth and transformation. The development of sensory pathways, such as vision and hearing, are among the first to occur in the brain. They are followed by the development of early language skills and higher cognitive functions. As the brain develops, connections between neurons multiply and then selectively eliminate, in a specific sequence. This process builds upon earlier, simpler brain circuits to form later, more complex circuits. In order for sensory information to reach the brain for processing, nerve cells must establish connections with each other to transmit impulses. A prime example is the transmission of impulses from nerve cells in the retina of the eye to the primary visual area of the brain, known as visual processing. Children progress through various stages of development as they engage in play and learn important skills like language, behavior, and motor skills. Coordinating these essential cognitive skills, particularly motor skills such as rolling over, crawling, walking, tying shoes, and riding a bike are critically important. While each child progresses at their own pace, it is crucial not to overlook the significance of achieving developmental milestones. Failing to reach these milestones at the expected times can be an early indication of potential issues. Each milestone is crucial for the child’s growth and sets the foundation for early brain development. To fully unlock a child’s learning potential, they need exceptional vision skills (EYES), auditory processing skills (EARS), as well as strong motor skills (BODY). All of our sensory systems are connected. When we train them together we see incredible brain changes. A scientific, integrated cognitive and academic approach balances all sensory systems by constantly strengthening the central nervous system and throughout the brain. Empowering a child’s learning potential hinges on the intricate neural connections within the central nervous system, the sensory systems and the communication systems between hemispheres. Research indicates the more input brain cells receive, the better their organization and function skills. Thus increasing memory, attention, organization, processing speed, learning, motor skills, inhibiting impulses and sequencing of information. Simply put, the brain must communicate with the eyes, link up with the ears and speak to the body. IT JUST MAKES SENSE!
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Crossing the Midline

The critical role of “crossing the midline” or bilateral coordination in early brain development is often overlooked. Crossing the Midline is essential as it helps integrate both sides of the brain and body, supporting overall brain development. Difficulties in crossing the midline indicate a lack of communication between the brain’s hemispheres.

The importance of effective communication between the brain’s hemispheres for overall functioning cannot be overstated. Each hemisphere has distinct functions that allow us to interact with the world. However, an imbalance in the maturation of the brain’s two sides can disrupt the electrical impulses that enable communication. Researchers have found strong evidence linking this communication problem to a range of behavioral, social, and learning difficulties.

Failure in communication between the left and right sides of the brain can lead to negative consequences. This disconnection has been associated with various disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing difficulties, and other mental health conditions. These disorders often present challenges in body awareness, motor coordination, handwriting, reading, and sports participation.

Crossing the Midline is considered vital, as it signifies a deeper understanding of one’s brain and body connections, leading to improved motor skills and cognitive growth. Imagine the brain as a powerful central computer overseeing the various functions of the body. Supporting this network, the nervous system acts as a communication highway where this exchange occurs through the spinal cord. When the communication systems in the central nervous system and the brain are obstructed, effective communication is disrupted and information fails to reach its intended destination, causing learning confusion.

Enhancing brain and body performance is crucial for optimal brain function. These skills involve coordinating the left and right sides of the brain, which work together to prompt the body to utilize both sides simultaneously. Without this coordination, the brain has to exert unnecessary effort to accomplish basic tasks that should be effortless.

Mind Discovery develops balance, coordination, and hand dominance in children through Primitive Reflex Integration, and Integrated Practice Protocol Exercises. These very specific exercises are necessary to develop a dominant side of the brain. Bilateral integration therapy can significantly enhance learning outcomes.

Executive Functioning

Executive function and self-regulation skills are crucial mental processes that allow us to effectively plan, concentrate, retain information, and handle various tasks simultaneously. Our brain relies on these skills to block out distractions, prioritize tasks, accomplish our objectives, and exercise control over impulsive behaviors.

The development of executive function and self-regulation skills in children leads to positive outcomes. These skills are vital for learning, development, and promoting positive behavior. Moreover, they empower us to make healthy choices for ourselves and our families.
The key to executive function and self-regulation lies in three fundamental brain processes: working memory, mental flexibility, and self-control. The different executive function skills rely on components found in other skills. Working memory controls our capacity to hold and manipulate specific pieces of information for brief periods. Mental flexibility aids our ability to maintain or change our focus based on various demands or to adjust our actions in different situations. Self-control empowers us to establish priorities and resist acting or responding impulsively.

Children do not naturally possess these skills, but they possess the capability to acquire them. Weak executive functioning can obstruct brain development and impede the growth of executive function.

Creating environments that promote growth gives children the necessary foundation to practice skills before they need to perform them independently. Adults can aid in the development of a child’s executive function skills by establishing routines, setting positive examples of social behavior, and fostering supportive relationships. Additionally, it is important for children to engage in activities that encourage creative play, social interaction, stress management, and physical exercise. Over time, children should also be given opportunities to take charge of their own actions with gradually decreasing adult supervision.