Parent Teacher Education

The Brain on Nature

Parents and staff who attended Wednesday night’s final presentation in the 2009-2010 NHMS Parent Teacher Education Series were treated to a dynamic a conversation with Marc Berman , doctoral student from University Of Michigan.

Berman’s research has focused on studies of the impact of connection with the natural world on short term memory and executive function.  His findings, derived from scientific experimental models and fMRI scans of the brain, support unstructured time spent in natural settings as as a way to restore the “directed ” attention required to do schoolwork and other focused tasks.

Directed attention reserves can be replenished by activities and environments that call on involuntary attention.  Meditation and nature rich environments allow the brain time to restore directed attention.   Just being outside is not enough said Berman.  Things like playing sports and riding bikes require directed attention and therefore do not allow for the downtime the brain needs to return to focused activities.  Interestingly, although many of us and our children use TV and video games to relax, both activities require directed attention and can further deplete it.

Bottom line for optimal brain health, schedule routine outings for your families that will take place in the natural environment, parks, woods, etc.  Likewise, we will continue to “follow the child” and are committed to allowing each child  these restorative experiences during the school day.