Brain-based instruction can help to insure optimum brain development and stimulation.

  • Structure: Students learn better when they feel safe and supported. Offer opportunities for students to work together in small groups, pairs and teams. Encourage prosocial behaviors such as sharing, listening and cooperation.
  • Emotional Intelligence: Many students lack the coping skills to deal with everyday emotions and challenges. Help youth learn healthy emotional skills, such as conflict resolution, communication, patience, respect, perseverance and empathy.
  • Learning Styles: People learn in a wide variety of ways. Find ways to teach information and skills in a variety of styles, and celebrate the diversity within your group.
  • The Arts: The arts support creativity and focus. Offer opportunities for students to engage in explorations in drama, music, dance and the visual arts.
  • Exercise: Support students’ learning by providing daily fun activities. Physical activity positively impacts the brain’s ability to retain new information. Exercise increases energy levels, releases stress and improves mood.

Research supports a brain-based approach to learning. Find out more about developing a child’s learning potential, and make after school a fun time to learn.

Suggested Resources:

Teaching Outside the Box: How to Grab Your Students by their Brains by LouAnne Johnson

Teaching with the Brain in Mind, 2nd ed., by Eric Jensen

National Institute of Mental Health

www.brainline.org/InteractiveBrain