6 Neuroscience-Backed Secrets to Help Your Child Learn Faster (and Have Fun Doing It!)
Discover how neuroplasticity and playful learning can unlock your child’s full potential.
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Hey there!
As parents, we want our children to succeed, but sometimes learning can feel like an uphill battle—especially when we’re navigating the unique needs of neurodivergent kids.
But what if learning could be something more exciting?
What if there were simple, science-backed ways to help your child learn faster while still having fun?
Well, the good news is, there are!
Neuroscientist Dr. Lila Landowski shares six powerful strategies in her TED Talk that can do just that—helping your child learn faster in a way that feels natural, engaging, and filled with curiosity.
Let’s break down the 6 secrets to learning faster, backed by neuroscience, that will boost their learning journey—let’s call it the S.A.M.B.A.R. formula!
Brain Hack: 6 secrets to learning faster, backed by neuroscience | Lila Landowski | TEDxHobart
Sleep isn’t just for resting—it’s essential for learning!
💤 Memory magic happens during sleep:
When your child sleeps, their brain transfers what they’ve learned into long-term memory.
To maximize this process, ensure your child’s sleep routine is consistent and relaxing.
Activity Tip: Create a bedtime ritual where your child picks a "dream journal" (a small notebook) and draws or writes one thing they learned that day before going to bed. It helps them reflect and reinforces learning.
🌙 Quality sleep = better learning:
A well-rested child can focus and process information more effectively during the day.
Activity Tip: Have a “quiet hour” before bed, dimming the lights and reading a calm story. This prepares their brain for restful sleep, allowing them to consolidate memories better.
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1. S = Sleep: The Secret to Retaining Knowledge
2. A = Attention: Focused Learning, Faster Results
The more your child focuses, the faster they can learn—but first, we need to help them pay attention.
📱 Limit screen time:
Reduce distractions by minimizing screen use during learning times. Create a quiet, focused space for your child to learn without interruptions.
Activity Tip: Try a ”FOCUS ZONE” at home where devices are put away.
Fill it with sensory toys, books, and activities that engage your child’s focus and attention.
🔦 Create a focus point:
Encourage your child to concentrate on one object or activity to help them stay focused.
Activity Tip: Use a calm, sensory item like a fidget spinner or stress ball that your child can hold while they engage in a learning activity.
3. M = Mistakes: Embrace Them to Grow
Learning isn’t about getting everything perfect—it’s about growing through challenges!
🚀 Challenge equals growth:
Encourage your child to embrace challenges and learn from mistakes.
Activity Tip: Set up a “challenge corner” where your child can try new things, like building a tower with blocks or attempting a tricky puzzle. Celebrate mistakes as part of the fun!
🌀 Mix things up:
Add variety to learning activities to keep things fresh and exciting.
Activity Tip: Change how you do familiar activities.
For example, if your child usually colors with crayons, let them try using colored pencils or markers instead. New tools keep learning interesting!
4. B = Breaks: Give Their Brain Time to Process
Learning isn’t just about non-stop activity—it’s about giving their brain time to absorb and process what they’ve learned.
🌿 Breaks help:
After 15-20 minutes of focused learning, give your child a short break to process and recharge.
Activity Tip: During a break, try a quiet sensory activity like playing with playdough, doing some deep breathing exercises, or even spending some calm time playing with their pet.
These quiet activities give their brains time to rest while still being engaging.
✨ See TOP 10 Sensory-Friendly Toys for toddlers
🕐 Space out learning:
Spread learning sessions throughout the day to give their brain time to absorb and retain information.
Activity Tip: Create a schedule with learning blocks—perhaps 15 minutes of reading, followed by a 10-minute break, and then 15 minutes of a hands-on activity like building or crafting.
5. A = Alert: Keep Their Brain Energized
When your child is alert and engaged, they absorb new information much faster.
💨 Quick exercise breaks:
Little bursts of movement help keep your child’s brain sharp and ready to learn.
Activity Tip: Take a "brain break" by dancing to their favorite song or doing simple stretches.
🥑 Nutritious snacks:
Eating the right foods helps keep their brain energized.
Activity Tip: Involve your child in making simple snacks like apple slices with peanut butter or a fruit smoothie. Preparing healthy snacks together can teach them about brain-boosting nutrition.
🔦 Focus point:
A visual or sensory focus point can help your child stay alert and grounded during learning.
Activity Tip: Set up a calming space with a soft light or favorite toy for your child to look at while learning. This helps keep them alert without overloading them.
6. R = Repetition: Practice Makes Learning Easier
The more your child practices, the better they get. Repetition is key to mastering new skills.
🔁 Repetition helps them learn faster:
Practice is essential! Encourage your child to repeat tasks, songs, or activities to reinforce their learning.
Activity Tip: Use games like “Simon Says” or “Memory Match” to repeat movements or patterns.
🕐 Space out learning:
Don’t overload your child. Spread out practice sessions to give them time to absorb and retain information.
Activity Tip: If your child is learning new words or numbers, review them in small, spaced-out sessions throughout the day—during breakfast, on walks, or before bed.
Whether your child is neurodivergent or neurotypical, by embracing these six powerful, science-backed strategies—sleep, attention, mistakes, breaks, alertness, and repetition—you’re giving them the tools to build a mind that’s stronger, more confident, independent, and adaptable.
And the best part?
You’re helping your child develop a love for learning that will stay with them through every challenge and success, guiding them for a lifetime.
Because what the world needs most right now are curious, passionate learners—kids who are excited to grow, explore, and make a difference.
🌟 Keep reading for more helpful insights!
Have a wonderful day, and keep being the amazing parents that you are!
DdL Mom
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I'm Ana, an Introverted Mom who strongly believes toddlers are life's greatest teachers.
My passions:
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Everything related to the brain and Neurodiversity,
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