Brain Development Flashcards
Why is brain development important?
It underpins their overall development.
90% of a child’s brain is developed before the age of 5.
What are neurons?
Neurons are brain cells.
They connect together to transmit and receive electrical signals.
These signals operate and reflect our feelings, thoughts and actions.
There are millions of neurons firing off signals at any time towards the brain.
What are neural pathways?
It is an established route for signals within the brain and it is a series of connected neurons.
They are formed by stimulation- the more stimulation a baby gets the more they will develop brain mature.
Every new experience we have will create new connections between the neurons within the brain.
What is myelination?
It is a process that coats the axon of each neurone with a fatty substance (myelin).
This protects the neural pathways and it helps to conduct signals more efficiently.
What is neural pruning?
It is when some synapses and connections are not always needed.
These are removed to help the brain be more efficient.
What does this look like in practice?
Routine and habit.
Ensuring children have access to a range of toys and resources.
Ensuring children have access to a wide range of environments.
Practice and revision.
Asking questions about past experiences.
