#Olympicmoms Brain Insight #3

When you exercise, not only will your body benefit... 

so will your brain! 

There is continuously growing evidence to demonstrate how physical activity positively impacts the brain. You can use the Olympics as inspiration and opportunity to increase movement in your life. Go to OlympicMoms to get LOTS of family fun ideas for activity during the Olympics! 

Learn More: 

The Effects of Exercise on the Brain

MK McGovern

Exercise has been touted to do everything from treat depression to improve memory, with the power to cure a host of problems while preventing even more. In particular, exercise leads to the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that alleviate pain, both physical and mental. Additionally, it is one of the few ways scientists have found to generate new neurons. Much of the research done in this area has focused on running, but all types of aerobic exercise provide benefits. Although the exact nature of these benefits is still being determined, enough research has been done to provide even skeptics with a motivation to take up exercise. Exercise exerts its effects on the brain through several mechanisms, including neurogenesis, mood enhancement, and endorphin release. Read more here

#OlympicMoms #2

Be an Olympic Mom or Dad for 14 days! 

  

A caring parent is always trying to do everything to make life smoother, healthy and fun for the family right? Is that you...but, sometimes you run out of ideas? Are you wanting to provide your children with the best nutrition, physical activity, learning and fun interaction every day? And then also somehow make all of that happen for yourself as well?

If so, things just got easier, healthier and more fun for you! During the Olympics you can take advantage of the fun with #OlympicMoms and #OlympicDads!  All you need to do is simply enjoy all that is shared for your benefit! Your brain will LOVE it!!

Dr. Lynne Kenney, has brought together a wonderful group of experts to share easy fitness tips, activity ideas, a recipe plan and lots of fun for you and your family. These knowledgeable people are impressive. I am thrilled to be a part of this extraordinary group. You are going to greatly enjoy ... and are going to be amazed at all that is shared! 

Further explanation is available here. 
To see ALL that is already shared go to #OlympicMoms and #OlympicDads! 

YOU ARE GOING TO WANT TO CHECK THIS OUT!

For more ideas and information about all you get offered directly to you from these experts, go to Olympic Moms Participant Guide. It explains everything it gives you a tracking guide, a list of all of the experts contributing, and it even includes a whole meal plan list! Download it, view it, share it, it’s all Fun & FREE!  There will be much more as the Olympics continue! Also follow on Pinterest and Twitter at #OlympicMoms.

  

The point is to ENJOY and have fun while you and your family become more healthy and fit in such an easy way!!! 

Creating Great Connections

The January 2014  Creating Great Connections Newsletter! Included in this issue is information, inspiration and resources toward making this the year brain development becomes common knowledge and implemented... because the children deserve it! Below I share my new year thoughts. I invite you to read and share the full newsletter. Hopefully you and the children you touch in your life benefit from all that is shared!    IT IS ALL ABOUT NEW

HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU!     The new year brings to us the excitement of the feeling of a fresh start! This renewed energy gives us a positive outlook with the hope that things will be different... and better! As those of you that have been following Brain Insights since it started in 2008 know, each new year my dream is for this to be the year early brain development becomes common knowledge.This year is certainly no different, those passionate hopes continue into 2014! However, one thing is different for me this year. I lost my father on Christmas Eve. Normally, personal life impacts are not something shared here but I am making an exception. My father was someone who enjoyed nothing better than seeing evidence of the world becoming a better place through people being kind and caring for one another. He cared about people and so enjoyed encouraging people at a very individual level. A common statement my father would make is, "There are no supposed tos". This reflected that he felt very strongly that we each need to follow our individual hearts and minds, not follow the norm, and not worry about what others think about what we feel is right to do. I share this, because I plan to use inspiration from my father to create NEW and different ways of making positive early brain development commonly understood and implemented. He will be smiling brightly as each and every child develops to be the extraordinary individual they have the potential to become. With an ineffable feeling of excitement that I almost can not contain, I look forward to the caring connections we will make to finally create a world of difference. With this in mind, NEW projects are in development. I am EXTREMELY anxious to share these with you as soon as possible. One of these projects is anticipated be released VERY soon! It is something in which you, being a person that really cares, are going to want to be a part. The thrilling thing about it is, it takes the dream beyond hope. It provides specific and easy ways we can each make a difference everyday! A special edition newsletter will be sent with this announcement! Additionally, there are several NEW things that are already available, that I share for your benefit throughout this newsletter.  I hope you enjoy all that is provided!      Let's ALL continue to share and enlighten all adults until EVERY child gets the learning environments and relationships they deserve!    Filled with inspiration,  Deborah  WISHING YOU A COMPLETELY SPECTACULAR 2014!!

MOVING = LEARNING!

"Sit still.... listen....stop fidgeting... 

settle down... just stop moving!"

 

Frequently these types of directions or commands come from adults trying to help children learn. Why do you think this occurs? Could it be simply because children need to move to learn and they are doing what comes naturally to them?

 "Compared with past generations children today are living far more sedentary lives. We are tampering with thousands of years of predetermined, movement based biology, and the unintended consequences are just beginning to show up in research studies and news reports." 

  ~ Gill Connell & Cheryl McCarthy

It is extremely thrilling to me, that research provides evidence of what actually is best for learning and helping children develop in the most optimal way!  How comforting it is for parents and educators to actually KNOW in what way children learn best. This valuable research demonstrates that the way children learn best is through interaction and MOVEMENT!!

.... AND even more exciting...

There is a brand new book that beautifully lays out and provides us with this critical understanding in an easy to understand format!

A MOVING CHILD IS A LEARNING CHILD 

by Gill Connell and Cheryl McCarthy! 

Gill Connell states her desire which led to writing this important book.

"I believe movement is the under-appreciated piece of the early childhood puzzle, and I want parents and teachers to understand the vital role movement plays in helping little ones reach their fullest potential."

This book is filled with incredible insights, explanations, ideas and tips. It is extremely difficult to begin to explain all this book provides. Additionally it is also presented in a beautiful format with graphics and photos that both inspire and also illustrate the valuable information shared. 

Something especially extraordinary is also introduced in this new book. It is called the kinetic scale. You are going to want to be among the first to become aware and understand how this scale provides a guide to the various stages of development. The developmental movement stages are categorized in this book as; snugglers, squigglers, scampers, stompers, scooters and skedaddlers! Isn't that perfect?

I had the honor of attending the first book signing for this valuable guide at the NAEYC Conference in Washington, DC.  What a pleasure it was to spend time with Cheryl McCarthy at this event!

It is my hope that this book will be widely read and the ideas will be implemented EVERYWHERE there are children. This book helps adults understand why children don't sit still, run, jump, skip and fidget.... and why IT IS SO CRITICALLY IMPORTANT to their brain development and learning!

To find out more:  A Moving Child is a Learning Child

ENJOY!!!

EXCITING TO SHARE!!

Providing More For You! 

Numerous spectacular events have been taking place for Brain Insights. ... AND there are even more coming! 

In addition to the excitement of letting you know of new products....Brain Insights is working on other new projects I am extremely anxious to share with you as soon as possible!!!

A new innovative product that is being developed, is going to make an INCREDIBLE difference for young children .....and make parenting EASIER!! Sorry.... It is not possible to tell you more yet.... but you can be assured, you will hear about it!!  I will be so extremely thrilled to let you know about it as soon as I can!!! AND ... you will soon have the opportunity to become a member of a group that will be making a difference for children ... worldwide!

In the meantime here are other exciting things you can take advantage of NOW! 

There is a NEW series of Brain Development Activity Packets available!! 

Redleaf Press has collaborated with Brain Insights to create a New Series of brain packets for Early Childhood Educators!!! 

These make it so easy for caring professionals to have activity ideas and brain information right on hand for each age from birth through five!

These packets debuted at the National Early Childhood Association Conference in Washington, DC!!

In addition to having the wonderful opportunity to present to dedicated and caring professionals coming from all over the world....
Several Redleaf Authors also had the chance to network! 
Check out Rainbows within Reach & Ooey Gooey Lady

Can you tell how fun that was?!!

  Brain Insights has relocated!

The new location makes it possible to easily and conveniently provide brain presentations, workshops, and trainings to additional locations. I am so Looking forward to booking with your company, organization, school, or agency to make a positive impact! Simply send an email to deb@braininsightsonline.com

  

 

www.braininsightsonline.com

What is Better Than Helping a Child Thrive?

Play is essential to the healthy development of children. It is the way the brain learns best. It provides the movement that is critical to overall development. It leads to optimal social/emotional abilities. Due to the importance of play in helping a child

thrive, I invited a Kate Drummond to share her knowledge and expertise in a guest blog.

Enjoy the insights and ideas she has provided here for you! 

Kate has been working with children as an occupational therapist for 16 years.  She is certified in Sensory Integration by the University of Southern California and Western Psychological Services.  Her therapy company is, About Play, and she is the co-founder of the Healthy Foundations Program. 

Helping Your Child Thrive:  Engagement of the Sensory Systems through Play

By Kate Drummond, OTR/L

 Engaging with your child in a playful way is highly beneficial for her development, from early infancy, through childhood, and into teenage years.  Not only does it foster an emotional connection, but it can also help to build crucial foundational skills for academic learning. 

As a sensory integration certified occupational therapist, I help to teach families how to connect with their child while engaging the seven sensory systems:  touch/tactile, visual, auditory, movement/vestibular, position/proprioceptive, smell/olfactory, and taste/gustatory.

Listed below are several activities that you can use with your child to provide a sensory-rich experience for them in their development. 

Touch/Tactile

• Massage:  Use a gentle, natural oil, such as grape seed oil, to massage your baby or child after a bath.  As he gets older, teach him how to rub the oil into his own body. 
• Provide a variety of textures for her to explore on: Provide different soft blankets for your infant to explore on during tummy time, and have cuddly toys or “lovey” blankets available for your child.
• Beach trips or visits to a sand box:  sand provides a great tactile experience for children—but if playing in a sandbox, make sure that it has a cover.
• Provide opportunities for messy play: Provide regular opportunities for your child to get messy, and be aware of your own sensitivities to mess.  Take it outside, or play with the soap foam or shaving foam on the tub tiles for easy clean up if mess bothers you.

Visual

·         Provide black and white objects early on:  Hang mobiles over the crib or over the changing table, and provide black and white toys during early infancy.

·         Opt for natural or soft lighting whenever possible, avoiding the use of fluorescent bulbs:  This type of lighting is easier on the eyes and nervous system.

·         Provide games or a moving object that help your child follow your face

·         Use bubbles:  Stimulate and engage the visual system.

·         Use an easel:  This optimizes visual development while your child is learning how to paint and draw.

·         Play with balls—a variety of sizes:  Bounce, catch, throw, and kick to help with eye-body coordination.

·         Play flashlight tag:  While lying down, tag and chase lights projected on the ceiling or wall.

Auditory

• Play music during the day:
• Advanced Brain Technologies provides a collection of 4 Discs called “Music for Babies” geared for children aged birth-3 years old.  Some compilations geared for sleep or relaxation, others geared for play.  http://www.advancedbrain.com/music-for-babies/musicforbabies.html
• Hemi-Sync music “metamusic” can be played over speakers or on headphones for improved attention, focus, and sleep. http://www.hemi-sync.com/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=218&cat=Children
• Bach or Mozart provides organizing and calming information to the brain during family meals or when your child is doing homework.
• Play “freeze dance” as a family or with friends: This builds coordination, engagement, and releases pent up energy. 

         * Freeze Dance is a game that you play by doing freestyle dance while listening to music.

            When the "controller" stops the music, you must freeze your body in the spot, and don't

            move until the music starts again.  The controller can call you "out" if you move while

            the music has stopped.  

• Use white noise: This noise can provide a soothing effect for sleep and can help to calm a fussy baby.

       * White noise can be provided by tuning into static on the radio, you can use the noise of a

           fan, or you can even buy a sound machine (at Target or Bed Bath Beyond) that provides

           soothing noises or white noise options.  

Movement/Vestibular

• Allow for several opportunities to move in the day— helps child gain coordination, and allows her to be more focused for seated play/school work when older:
• Allow babies tummy time and play on the floor.  This helps to develop gross motor coordination and bilateral integration of both sides of the body and upper and lower parts of the body.
• Use baby swings and rock your baby in a rocking chair.
• Allow children movement opportunities on scooters, trikes, and bikes throughout the day.
• Use the swings on the playground—respect your child’s fear and don’t go beyond her comfort zone.
• Allow for 45-60 minutes of movement before having your child do his homework.  This will allow for greater attention and focus. 
• Pool time!  Swimming promotes coordination and healthy movement.

Position/Proprioception

• Provide tummy time for babies:  This builds muscle and helps visual development.
• Provide play with tunnels: Encourage crawling as soon as your baby starts.  This play is also beneficial after your child can walk—it stimulates both sides of the brain and provides great opportunity for coordination.
• Provide climbing opportunities in a safe environment:  Use simple playground equipment: ladders, rope ladders, and rock climbing walls for older children.  This type of feedback helps to “organize” the nervous system.

Smell (Olfactory)/Taste (Gustatory)

• Provide natural aromatherapy in your home with essential oils:  Different aromas can evoke emotions, and even promote health.  For example, lemon, lemongrass, or other citrus scents can be uplifting, and lavender is more calming.  Avoid artificial or synthetic scents. 
• Provide your child with healthy food options
• Introduce your baby to healthy tastes.  Homemade, organic options are great to introduce your baby to when he is exploring food.  Freeze large batches in trays for defrosting perfect portions.
• Provide your child with the opportunity to have many different healthy choices, and even if your child will not eat them, continue to offer the food.    
• Have your older child become involved:  Grow veggies if possible, and/or have your child help to wash/prepare/handle/cut the food.  If there is fear around food, approaching it in this way is especially helpful.  Celebrate smelling and tasting the food versus “cleaning the plate.” 

Other Considerations

• By modeling a healthy lifestyle for your child, you provide a great role model.  Providing regular play, exercise, nutritious and balanced meals; engagement with your child will greatly help him create a solid foundation in his life.
• Some children have sensory processing differences that cause them to be sensitive to environmental stimulation (noise, touch, movement, taste and/or smell), to be clumsy or have coordination difficulties, to have low body awareness/high pain threshold, or sensory “seeking” behaviors. Frequent meltdowns with difficulty recovering can also be a sign of a sensory processing problem. If your child presents with any of these behaviors in a way that impacts his functional performance at home or in school, I recommend seeking an occupational therapist who is skilled or certified in sensory integration to help determine if your child can benefit from services. 

Kate enjoys providing lectures for parents and teachers, consulting with parents, and playing with children.  She lives at home with her husband, 3 children, and dog in Atlanta, Georgia. 

You can find more out about her on her website www.aboutplaytherapy.com, follow her on Twitter @about_play, or Facebook under Healthy Foundations. 

Have A Great Time Playing!!!

For more play ideas for everyday life go to www.braininsightsonline.com

Essential Dreams for Our Children!

Last week while watching a special on television I became even further inspired. It was a program reflecting on the achievements, and of course the dreams of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As the program ended, I stated, "I want to create a nationwide (actually worldwide) movement for children!" 
Of course as you know my goal is to have EVERY adult understand the extraordinary opportunity we have to develop children's brains in healthy ways!

So as I went to bed that night, I planned to write an, "I Have a Vision" blog. The next morning, when checking my email I see a blog post entitled, "Dare to Have a Dream for Our Children." by Cindy Terebush. Because, I immensely enjoy thoughts Cindy shares, I was excited to read this post. It was the same concept I had planned to write!  

With enthusiasm I let her know that I could not wait to share what she had written! She gave me permission to share it. So here is an excerpt and a link for you to enjoy and share! 

Dare to Have a Dream for Our Children

Fifty years ago today, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and shared his dream of freedom and equality.  It was a moving and bold speech that provided a defining moment as African American people fought for their civil rights.  Today, Barack Obama – the first African American President of the United States -  stood on those same steps to pay tribute to Dr. King.  We may still have a way to go but thanks to visionaries like Dr. King, we have progressed. 

Be a visionary with me and dream for our children.   They are growing up in a world that makes me concerned for the adults they will be. 

• I have a dream that children will play in front yards again and watch ants crawl in the grass.
• I have a dream that those children will be safe enough to ride bikes through their neighborhood and come home when the street lights come on.
• I have a dream that children will play on swings and try to get over the metal bar while staring at the clouds.
• I have a dream that someone will realize that standardized testing proves nothing except that humans have the capacity to memorize and so they will be abolished.
• I have a dream that the lockdown and evacuation drills become unnecessary and our children feel safe in their schools.
• I have a dream that young people will be able to just be who they are and not fear telling people that they are gay or lesbian or bisexual or transgendered.
• I have a dream that technology will do what we thought it would – save us time and not use so much of it that we have no time to watch the birds fly, the leaves blow and the waves hit the shore.
• I have a dream that community becomes a priority once again so that people walk away from their computers and value time talking in the same room.
• I have a dream that we teach our children that doing good in this world is more important than winning the dance competition or sporting event.

Dare to dream … 

Click here to go to Cindy's blog to benefit from all she has to share! Enjoy!

My vision is that we ensure that every child ...

• begins life with a very loving, and 
• consistently responsive caregiver.
• benefits from a safe, predictable and chaos free environment.
• is always respected as a unique and special individual.
• is provided with the healthy nutrition, sleep and opportunities for physical activity that their body and brain needs. 
• has the opportunity for self directed play throughout each day.
• experiences nature every day.
• is valued every moment. 

It would be wonderful to hear what visions you would add!