1. Brain Basics and Variability (Every brain is unique!)

• Three parts – Hand Model of Brain
• Basic Anatomy and Physiology
• Brain Plasticity (Our brains and minds change constantly)
• Neuro-Myths and Misconceptions
• Brain Development

2. Bio-Habits for Optimal Learning and Wellness

• Sleep and Nutrition                            
• Gut-Brain Axis
• Exercise and Movement               
• Science, Power, and Purpose of Play
• Focused vs. Diffuse (Default) Modes of Thinking
• Brain and Body on Nature             
• Creativity and Exploration
• Basic Needs (Glasser, others)     
• Supplements and Substances

3. Emotions (Emotions drive learning)

• Self-Regulation/Control   
• Self-Awareness
• Stress                                             
• Resilience
• Affective Networks and Reward Pathways
• Humor

4. Social Learning

• Healthy Relationships       
• Empathy
• Communication
• Culture               
• Collaboration
• Introversion and Extroversion
• Restorative Practices
• Conflict Resolution
• Restorative Practices         
• Stories support learning
• Character Traits
• Habits of Mind

5. Awareness and Executive Function/Networks

• Self-Awareness                             
• Mindful Practices
• Conflict Resolution                       
• Mindset
• Perception                                     
• Metacognition Skills/Practices
• Attention
• Responsible Decision Making
• Motivation
• Neuroception
• Boredom, Mind Wandering, Modes of Thinking

6. Memory

• Explicit and Implicit Memory Systems
• Short-term memory
• Working memory
• Long-term memory
• Mnemonics (brain hacks for improving memory)

7. Science and Strategies for STRESS

• Positive Psychology and Growing Optimism
• Humor and Play
• Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Strategies
• Movement, Creativity, The Arts
• Autonomy and power of choice
• Neurotransmitters and Reward Pathways
• Mindfulness Practices
• Mindsets and Neuroception
• Reset and Restorative Practices
• Connections to self and others (Relationships)

1. Student Centered

• Celebration of student work
• Promoting Choice and Voice
• Safe spaces for all students

2. Science of Nature

• Outdoor “classrooms” and “Forest Schools”
• Brains “on nature”
• Plants (real and fake)
• Animals or living creatures/pets
• Bringing the outdoors “IN”

3. Physical Elements and Science of Learning

• Lighting                   
• Temperature                    
• Air Quality               
• Noise                      
• Toxins                       
• Colors
• Organization and Order

4. Promoting Movement, Choice, Engagement

• Flexible Seating            
• Standing Desks
• Balance boards, wobble chairs, yoga balls
• Portability and Accessibility
• BRAIN “breaks” or shifts

5. Tools not Toys

• Fidget items      
• Physical Therapy Items
• Physical Model of Brain, etc.

1. Safety

• Physical
• Social - Emotional
• Positive and Supportive Environment
• Rules and Norms Support Values and Practices
• Clean and Healthy Facilities
• Focus on school safety, mental health, trauma informed and fostering resilience

2. Student Centered

• Choice and Voice
• Restorative Practices
• Embedded social and emotional learning and practice
• All students and staff valued, seen, and heard
• Personalized Competency Based Learning
• Challenged and Supported Appropriately
• High Expectations for All
• Mindset that Equity and Diversity Feeds Excellence

3. Relationships and Connectedness

• Respect and Practices to support Diversity
• Positive and Healthy Relationships Taught, Modeled, Practiced
• Connected and Supported Staff
• Effective and Inspiring Leadership

4. Professional Development and Awareness

• Cultural Awareness Shared and Practiced

• Trauma Informed Practices

• Staying current on Mind, Brain, and Education Sciences

•  9R Elements of Effective Instruction **