As we learn more about the human brain & its development, we can apply more effective parenting & teaching strategies to help kids mature. Inspiration & information for today’s blog comes from: National Geographic’s October 2011 article Beautiful Brains by David Dobbs. Another fabulous, entertaining article full of relevant & eloquently written discoveries.
Starting with points we know & have now been proven via MRI science & studies. Adolescence can be:
- emotional, trying
- a risk taking era
- a time when social interactions greatly influence motivation & behavior
- full of inconsistent behavior
From age 12 thru 25, “….brains undergo a massive reorganization…” “…as we move through adolescence, the brain undergoes extensive remodeling, resembling a network & wiring upgrade.” The brain “upgrade” directly impacts performance, behaviors, etc.. Plus, positive or negative (stress, fatigue) variables add another layer to behaviors & decisions. Other points to keep in mind:
- teens tend to have a high regard for reward gleaned from taking a risk even though they may realize the consequences on a cognitive level (ie. they’re not stupid)
- risk taking with success contributes to being able to adapt
- the brain matures from back to front
Switching gears…consider the following important fact:
“The United States spends about a billion dollars a year on programs to counsel adolescents on violence, gangs, suicide, sex, substance abuse, & other potential pitfalls. Few of them work.”
HUH. Are you surprised? What has the greatest impact on kids? PARENTING!
- share the brain development process with kids
- guide children, do not helicopter parent
- connect with kids & encourage independence
- have patience!!
- let kids fail..it is the best way to learn & the perfect lab to exercise adaptation skills
- remember that building social relationships is key to their success now & in the future
“Heredity is what sets the parents of a teenager wondering about each other.” ~Laurence J. Peter
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