How does poverty affect the brain?
The relationship we form with our students is nothing short of critical. I'm not sure how many times a teacher hears this in their years in education, in pre-service, in research and readings, in professional development, and from their colleagues and principals. But in all seriousness, it does!
Brain research shows "there is a direct connection between the body's stress-response system and brain development." Which makes the schooling of our students living in high poverty even more important. It is critical that we not only create a safe environment within the confines of the school building, but give these children the tools to cope and develop "resilience buffers that protect them from adversity." Our students need "relationships with parents, teachers, and other adults who make them feel secure." Read more in the Newsweek article below How Poverty Affects the Brain by Erika Hayasaki.
Consider this... What are you, your colleagues, your school, your district, or community doing to reach out and support these children? How have you empowered students?
Find a way to get involved outside of the classroom in community organizations. Start a group and invite people to come together and talk and brainstorm.
Brain research shows "there is a direct connection between the body's stress-response system and brain development." Which makes the schooling of our students living in high poverty even more important. It is critical that we not only create a safe environment within the confines of the school building, but give these children the tools to cope and develop "resilience buffers that protect them from adversity." Our students need "relationships with parents, teachers, and other adults who make them feel secure." Read more in the Newsweek article below How Poverty Affects the Brain by Erika Hayasaki.
Consider this... What are you, your colleagues, your school, your district, or community doing to reach out and support these children? How have you empowered students?
Find a way to get involved outside of the classroom in community organizations. Start a group and invite people to come together and talk and brainstorm.