Brain Facts For Kids
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The human brain is a truly amazing and complex organ. It is responsible for our thoughts, emotions, memories and physical movements. Children, as they grow and learn, need to understand the amazing things that their brain can do. Here are some brain facts that every kid should know.
1. The brain is made up of over 100 billion nerve cells (neurons) that communicate with each other by sending electrical and chemical signals. These signals help us to think, move, feel, and sense the world around us.
2. The average adult brain weighs about 3 pounds. It is divided into two halves known as hemispheres. The left hemisphere is responsible for language, reasoning, and logic. The right hemisphere is responsible for emotions, creativity, and visual-spatial skills.
3. The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and glucose to function properly. It uses about 20% of our body’s energy, even though it only makes up about 2% of our body weight.
4. Sleep is essential for the brain to work properly. During sleep, the brain sorts and processes information, consolidates memories and repairs itself.
5. Exercise is great for the brain. It increases blood flow to the brain, promotes the growth of new brain cells and improves memory.
6. Music is also great for the brain. Studies have shown that listening to music can improve attention, memory, and spatial reasoning skills.
7. The brain is wired for empathy. Mirror neurons in our brain help us to understand and relate to other people’s emotions and actions.
8. The brain has the ability to change and adapt throughout our lives in a process known as neuroplasticity. This means that we can learn new skills, change our attitudes, and recover from injury.
9. The brain is capable of creating its own entertainment. Dreams are created by the brain during sleep and can be weird, wild, and wonderful.
10. The brain is easily distracted. The average attention span for people is about 8 seconds, which is shorter than a goldfish. Putting distractions like mobile phones out of sight can help us concentrate better.
Knowing how the brain works can help children understand and appreciate their abilities and limitations. It can also encourage them to take better care of their brain health by getting enough sleep, exercising, eating healthy foods, and avoiding dangerous activities.