Season 1 Ep. 14 - The Brain Stages with Trish Wilkinson

Join Mariel and Josh on the "Probably Important Podcast" for an enlightening conversation with Trish Wilkinson, a teacher and author, as they delve into the complexities of child development, mental health, and the power of empathy and forgiveness.

Trish shares her passion for understanding child development and mental health, highlighting the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and creating a safe environment for children to express themselves truthfully. She emphasizes the need to understand the brain's development and function to help children thrive, discussing strategies she has implemented to support children with attention and auditory processing issues, as well as anxiety.

The conversation expands to explore the nature of learning and the workings of the human brain. Trish explains the process of neural development, highlighting the benefits of learning multiple languages before the age of nine and the potential for neurodivergent children to have heightened creativity and focus. She also shares her work with schools to develop practices that encourage students to find their strengths and become invested in their learning.

Trish and the hosts discuss the benefits of mindfulness and meditation, particularly in schools, emphasizing the importance of preparing the brain for tasks and allowing time for processing. They also explore techniques to enhance empathy and connection among students, highlighting the importance of creating a safe and conducive environment for learning and growth.

Trish shares her teaching experience, including her success in improving students' scores on standardized tests by teaching specific skills for test-taking. She emphasizes the importance of setting up the day for success, incorporating morning exercise into the routine, and rewarding students for applying their skills in daily life.

The conversation concludes with Trish sharing her vision for improving the education system by incorporating brain-friendly practices into classrooms. She proposes a pilot program to implement specific practices in schools, emphasizing the benefits of increased student engagement and a more enjoyable teaching experience.

Tune in to the "Probably Important Podcast" for a thought-provoking discussion on child development, mental health, and the power of empathy in education.

Trish's Website: https://thebrainstages.com/

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