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The first introduction to executive functions and how they impact learning. We'll address setting up a study area for better learning and organization, how to promote independence in your student, and how to identify and manage school-related stress and anxiety.

Week 2 focuses on research-based practices for improving learning and study skills, specifically how to prepare for tests and quizzes using active study strategies such as self-testing and practice. How to make learning "stick" and why what most people do doesn't really work.

Research shows nutrition, sleep routines, and stress all affect the developing brain. We give practical strategies to overcome challenges such as: refusing to cooperate in the morning, problems from not listening or not paying attention, 'losing it' over seemingly small situations, and resisting sleep or having difficulty sleeping.

A look at why embracing failure and allowing children to make mistakes is a critical part of the learning process. Why being too highly responsive to a child's needs (helicopter parenting) can create fear of failure, where a child won't challenge him/herself academically.

We explore the science behind reading and how the neural basis for reading changes as we grow. Kids can make deeper meaning and basic inferences from what they read through concrete strategies. We will explore the language of math and the importance of reading comprehension for strong math skills.

Between hormones, neurotransmitters, and the brain's rewiring, the teenage years often create a period of stress and emotional upheaval. However, these years also offer a wonderful opportunity to harness the brain's restructuring and strengthening connections that lead to empowerment. Learn how this rewiring affects mood changes, strange responses, irrational reactions, and other odd behaviors that are completely normal and necessary to grow into adulthood.

We will examine the impact of negative thoughts in kids and the importance of developing a growth mindset. Learn practical ways children can change the internal dialogue about not being good enough and language that encourages a growth mindset.

Continued discussion of executive functions and how the brain learns. Week 8 explores children with special needs, high intelligence, and learning disabilities. Learn tools to promote self-control through verbalization and the neural basis for these behavior patterns. Further discussion and tools for avoiding 'helicopter' parenting.

Are you stressed? Do you get stressed thinking about stress? Does the need to relax actually stress you out more? In our hyperbusy society, we all know a calm brain is more productive and supports a healthy lifestyle, but how can we achieve it? And what does that even mean? We will investigate healthy stress, behaviors that support a healthy sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, and how to get out of our own way as we work towards our goals.

Further discussion of executive functions including the impact of anxiety and stress on children. How to identify stress and how children can calm their brain. Adults will learn to model a calm brain, even when faced with difficult situations. Topical discussion of distraction and its impact on productivity and effectiveness. Why we struggle with distraction, the impact of technology, and how to take cognitive control by simplifying and incorporating 'old school' activities.