Understanding neuroscience in early childhood

This episode is sponsored by Mini Minds Matter. Find out more here: https://www.minimindsmatter.org.uk/

Neuroscience plays such a crucial role in understanding child development, principally in regard to brain growth, mental health, and emotional wellbeing. As children navigate their formative years, knowledge of brain function and neuroplasticity can inform practices that promote healthy development. In the article and podcast episode we explore these aspects, including the roles of key brain areas, and their implications for early years settings, along with mindfulness practices that can enhance children's development.

Read Mandy's article here:

https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/understanding-neuroscience-in-early-childhood/

If you enjoyed this episode you might also want to listen to and read:

'It's not time out, it's time in' for both of us: Co- and self-regulation, by Julie Robinson and Charlotte Hannah: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/its-not-time-out-its-time-in-for-both-of-us/

Self-regulation, co-regulation and mental health, by Dr Mine Conkbayir: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/self-regulation-co-regulation-and-mental-health/

Should we punish and reward children's behaviour? By Samantha Dholakia: https://thevoiceofearlychildhood.com/should-we-punish-and-reward-childrens-behaviour/

Episode break down:

00:00 – Introduction
06:00 – Creating a neuroscientific approach for young children
08:00 – Three parts of the brain linked to dinosaurs
08:30 – 'Calmasaurus': Pre-frontal cortex
09:30 – 'Activeasaurus': Amygdala
10:30 – 'Helpfulasaurus': Hippocampus
11:00 – Bringing knowledge and disciplines together
13:00 – 'Mini mindful moments'
14:30 – Nappy time as a neurological 'Mini mindful moment'
16:00 – Regular caring touch building strong neural pathways
18:00 – Calm touch movements
20:00 – Being more mindful in every day routines and activities
21:00 – Aromatherapy and play-dough
23:00 – Slowing down and not filling every minute of every day
26:00 – Involving parents in 'Mini mindful moments'
28:30 – Forming secure attachments

For more episodes and articles visit The Voice of Early Childhood website: https://www.thevoiceofearlychildhood.com