Growing Strong: Mindfulness in Brain Development w/ Dr. Rebecca Jackson
welcome to Season 4!
Equipping parents during their child’s academic years to bring learning to daily moments.
on today’s episode…
In this conversation, Dr. Rebecca Jackson discusses the importance of movement for children's development and overall well-being. She emphasizes the negative effects of excessive screen time and the need for balance and regulation. She emphasizes the role of coordination and core muscles in brain development and explains the function of the reticular activating system
insights
Summary
Dr. Rebecca Jackson discusses the impact of COVID on learning differences and the importance of brain health and development. She emphasizes the role of coordination and core muscles in brain development and explains the function of the reticular activating system. Dr. Jackson highlights the progression of development and the impact of developmental gaps on children's abilities. She also discusses the hope of brain development and the importance of closing developmental gaps. Finally, she addresses the impact of screen time on brain development and encourages parents to find a balance. In this conversation, Dr. Rebecca Jackson discusses the importance of movement for children's development and overall well-being. She emphasizes the negative effects of excessive screen time and the need for balance and regulation. Dr. Jackson also highlights the importance of movement for people of all ages.
About
Dr. Rebecca Jackson, Chief Programs Officer at Brain Balance, is a celebrated expert in brain health and development. She has published research on improving attention, cognition, and well-being, and is the author of the new book, “Back on Track.” Dr. Jackson is a frequent media guest expert appearing on CBS Mornings, NBC Nightly News, and in respected outlets including the Mayo Clinic Press, Forbes, Psych Central, and Business Insider.
Takeaways
COVID has had a significant impact on learning differences and child development.
Coordination and core muscles play a crucial role in brain development.
The reticular activating system is responsible for regulating attention and focus.
Understanding the progression of development can help parents set appropriate expectations for their children.
Closing developmental gaps can lead to improved academic and social outcomes.
Screen time should be balanced with physical movement and exercise for optimal brain development. Children naturally seek out movement and sensory play, which are crucial for brain development.
Excessive screen time can lead to brain fatigue and negative mood and behavior.
Teaching children balance and regulation is important for their overall well-being.
Movement is beneficial for people of all ages, including teenagers and adults.
Questions
Tell us about yourself and what motivates you to do the work you do at Brain Balance.
In your book, Back on Track, you teach on various child development elements. Today, we’re focusing on the impact of a child’s coordination and how to support this development.
Let’s start with the Reticular Activating System (RAS). Can you teach us about it and the importance of its activation?
What are core postural muscles? Briefly describe how these muscles impact kids in different stages– infancy, elementary, and middle-high school years.
How do you confront parents’ “hesitation” to accept or disbelief that their child is behind and needs intervention/practice.
Examples– riding a bike, playing a sport
There are two common themes throughout your entire book, whether it’s coordination, sensory, attention, or any other topic: 1. the importance of a child’s relationship with technology and 2. the need for kids to be physically active.
Can you unpack both please?
What final thoughts or comments would you add to our conversation about coordination development?
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With a PhD in education, I’m here to teach you how to use daily moments are learning opportunities so you raise confident and competent lifelong learners that thrive in an ever-changing world.
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