Did you know that you can strengthen and grow your brain? Through different intentional practices (like mindfulness - see previous activities) we can develop different neuropathways in our brains. This process is called neuroplasticity. Another way to do this is to intentionally work towards learning something new.
This activity involves watching a video on Neuroplasticity and reading the book “My Fantastic Elastic Brain”. After you have done these, make some goals to challenge yourselves in learning something new.
Electronic Links:
Neuroplasticity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELpfYCZa87g
My Fantastic Elastic Brain: https://shop.sourcebooks.com/your-fantastic-elastic-brain.html
https://vimeo.com/160036161
Book: My Fantastic Elastic Brain
Author: JoAnn Deak
Illustrator: Sarah Ackerly
Suggested Questions or Topics to Discuss:
How is your brain similar or different from muscles in your body?
What are your brain’s strengths?
Have you ever made a mistake and learned from this?
Tell me about a time that something was hard, but you kept going? Share an example from your own life with your child.
What is something you would like to work on that is challenging for you? Together, create a goal or a plan to do this.
Activity Add-Ons:
Download App: The 3D Brain, look at different parts of the brain discussed in the book to explore where they are in our brains and their function (amygdala, pre-frontal cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum)
