Neuroscience has given us new insights into how the brain develops and the critical role that emotions play in learning. We’ve found that learning is not a passive, mechanistic activity like we once thought. It involves the whole brain. Real learning is done through acquiring knowledge, caring, and experiencing.  

Switch On Your Learning

Our emotional brain contains the "on-off" switch to learning. When it is "off", we have only the potential to learn. When it’s "on", when we care or are engaged with the topic or person teaching us, the pathway to learning is open. Research shows that happiness has a positive effect on learning, memory and social behavior. Conversely, negative emotional states, such as anger and sadness, have a negative impact on learning and motivation.

The SSPS shows parents, teachers and students how to use a student's emotions to enhance their learning. Teachers learn how they can keep their students emotionally engaged with the subject. Parents can get kids excited about learning by creating situations where they get their needs met when doing homework. 

You Don't Pick Your Children's Teachers

Too often students fall behind due to a poor match between the teaching style and their learning style that goes unaddressed. The difficulties get blamed on the student – a lack of focus or motivation – and the underlying issue does not get resolved. Most parents don’t realize until too late the impact of the teacher’s style on their child's progress.

When we understand the different teaching styles as well as our child’s learning style, we can better advocate for our child’s learning. By knowing when the teacher’s style is not a good match for our child’s needs, we can anticipate issues, source additional support, or proactively negotiate with the teacher or school.

Teachers