our mind is a great power–tend and use it well

BRAINPOWER is an important concept at Canyon Grove Academy.  There’s a lot of exciting new research that has more clearly defined how the brain works and how we can boost the function and performance of our minds. There are a lot of mind-healthy habits and activities we can integrate into our everyday routines. We want to help our children gain the understanding and skills for building healthy, lifelong-learning, BRAINPOWER!.

What do we want our kids to know about the brain? 

Below, are some questions with associated links to support our efforts in helping them to build BRAINPOWER. Choose an area that would be most beneficial for you and your children. Share and apply what you learn and build BRAINPOWER together!

How do our brains work? What is brain power?

• Your Brain & Nervous System.pdf

• Video: The Learning Brain  (You can watch this one with your children)

• Video: How We Learn

• Brain Basics for Kids to Know .pdf

• Learn about “Neuroplasticity”- The brain’s ability to keep growing and changing, and making new connections.

  • Video: Neuroplasticity

What can we do to boost our children’s brain power? AND

How can our children power-up their brains for learning?

• 7 Simple Ways to Boost Your Child’s Brain Power.pdf

• Employ predictability and novelty in your lessons and routines

  • The Learning Brain Thrives: Predictability and Novelty.pdf

• Incorporate Brain breaks into your daily learning routine

  • New Ideas for Brain Breaks for Kids.pdf

  • 54 at-Home School BrainBreaks+.pdf

• Feed the brain well

  • Video: How the Food We Eat Affects Our Brains

What are some conditions under which the brain functions best?

• Practice Mindfulness

  • What is Mindfulness and How to Explain it to Kids and Adults

  • Animated video: How Mindfulness Empowers Us: by Sharon Salzberg

  • Why Teach Mindfulness to Children.pdf

• Minimize stress and anxiety

  • Video: Managing Stress – Brainsmart – BBC

  • Stress Relief for Kids: What You Can Do

  • Strengthen the Mind_ 5 Ways to Help Anxious Children Gain Coping Skills.pdf