Brain Building Blogs
The Science Behind Boredom: Why Kids Need Down Time
In a world where everything is instant, on-demand, and always “on,” boredom has become a dreary word. For many families, a bored child feels like a crisis, something to fix with a screen, an activity, or another app. But what if we told you that boredom isn’t a problem to solve but a vital developmental tool?
Neuroscience and child psychology both point to the same truth: unstructured time is essential for developing creativity, resilience, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills. It’s not just okay for kids to be bored; it’s good for them.
The Neuroscience Behind Manifestations and How Positive Self-Talk Can Shape Young Brains
When you hear the word manifestation, you might picture vision boards, motivational quotes, or someone saying, “Just think positive!” But what if there’s actual science behind the way our thoughts shape our reality, especially in developing brains. The truth is, there is no such thing as “reality” that your brain simply sees. Your brain is constantly constructing your experiences filtering, interpreting, and deciding what reality even is. That means the stories we tell ourselves, especially as children and adolescents, can literally rewire how we experience the world around us. Manifestation and self-affirmations tap directly into how the brain builds your internal world, and understanding the neuroscience behind this process can help us use these tools more intentionally.
Brain Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity is a core piece of discussions on brain development, health, and aging. This blog will discuss the benefits of physical activity for the brain, the popular question of “How much physical activity should I be getting?”, and suggestions for combining play and exercise for all ages.
Introduction to Brain Anatomy
This blog will provide a basic understanding of the anatomy of a few relevant structures of the brain to behaviour.
Animal Relationships and Social Health
What role do relationships with animals play in our cognitive health? This blog will discuss the importance of social connection, how pets can play a role, and the benefits of animal relationships for the brain.
Online Games for Maintaining Cognitive Function in Older Adults
Online games are a great option for cognition-enhancing play, but come with important considerations. Learn more in this blog about online games for maintaining cognitive funciton in older adults.
Brain Foods
This blog will explore the facts and fiction behind “Brain Foods” as well as what real additions you can make to your diet to support your brain health.
Traditional Persian Games Part 2
Traditional Persian Games Part 2 includes more Persian games to try!
Traditional Persian Games - Part 1
Learn about Persian games and new ways to play with your children and friends.
Building Brains Community Action
As this blog will highlight, we return to LHA every week (in rain or shine, snow or wind) with a team of dedicated volunteers to bring our mission and opportunities to play outdoors to LHA families. Learn more about this community program by reading this week’s blog.
Neurodiverse Play
Is there a right way to play? This blog will explore the concept of neurodiversity and its implications for play, and likewise the development of executive function.
Improving Executive Function in Everyday Life
Learning about your Executive Function skills contributes to your self-awareness which has been positively correlated to the ability to effect change.
Bilingualism: Lifelong brain benefits
Read about the incredible role of bilingualism in supporting executive function, and consider the diverse ability of acquiring a second language to alter brain outcomes.
Technology and the Developing Mind: Striking the Right Balance
Screens have become a go-to for entertainment, education, and even parenting. But is this constant exposure helping or harming our kids?
Traditional Chinese Games - Part 2
Building Brains connects with our local Chinese community to learn more about traditional Chinese games.
Traditional Chinese Games - Part 1
Building Brains participates and learns about traditional Chinese games.
How Childhood Friendships Shape the Brain Forever
In this post, we explore how different types of childhood friendships, both supportive and challenging, contribute to emotional growth, mental well-being, and the development of executive function.
Art and the Aging Brain
Research shows that engaging with art can help keep the brain sharp, improve emotional well-being, and enhance overall quality of life! Learn more in this blog post.
The Benefits of Chess in Building Young Minds
It’s easy to assume chess is just for serious thinkers or future grandmasters, but in reality, any kid can play, and the benefits go far beyond the game board.