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March 2022
Happy Brain Awareness Week!
Have you ever thought about the fact that our brains are so powerful that they are the only organ to name themselves? Yep - and that is just the tip of the cerebral cortex that makes our brains so amazing.
Understanding the brain science behind healthy childhood development is core to all of our work at Children & Families First. Children who experience traumas such as abuse, neglect, and family violence face challenges that can negatively impact their immediate and life-long health and well-being - and what happens next makes all the difference. Using cutting-edge research from the Harvard Center on the Developing Child we implement evidenced-based programs and best practices proven to prevent, intervene, and heal those impacts.
Please join us in raising awareness of the benefits of brain science research for our whole community by committing to building your own brain!
Here are five great tips on taking care of your brain:
Challenge your brain.
Research has found that intellectual engagement may improve your cognitive abilities by learning new skills, taking up a new hobby, doing puzzles, playing brain games (you've heard of Wordle right?), or even participating in volunteer work!
Communicate with others.
Visit with friends, spend time with loved ones, or enjoy group social activities. Your brain will benefit from increasing healthy interactions with others. In fact, laughing requires activity in 5 different areas of your brain.
Improve your nutrition.
Nourish your brain with a healthy diet. Eat fruit, vegetables, and lean meats while avoiding fried foods, and sugary snacks.
Exercise regularly.
Physical exercise has many known benefits but did you know it also improves focus and concentration, relieves stress, and stimulates the growth of blood vessels in the brain.
Get plenty of sleep.
Sleep plays an important role in your brain health. Getting eight consecutive hours of sleep per night gives your brain the time to store your memories effectively.
COMING NEXT MONTH! National Volunteer Month
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