factors influencing brain development

These flashcards cover key concepts related to brain development and the factors that influence it, including environmental factors, neurogenesis, and educational interventions.

Environmental Enrichment

An environment that meets the intellectual and emotional needs of children, which aids in their brain development.

Neurogenesis

The process of generating new neurons in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus.

Cortex

The outer layer of the brain involved in many higher functions, such as thought and action.

Hippocampus

A brain structure critical for memory and learning.

Glial Cells

Cells in the brain that provide support and protection for neurons.

Miseducation

A term referring to educational practices that hinder learning, leaving preschoolers at risk.

Original Thinking

The belief that intelligence is primarily heritable and not significantly affected by the environment.

Physical Exercise

A factor shown to increase hippocampal size and improve brain function.

Epigenetics

The study of how behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect how genes work.

Complex Brain Circuitry

More intricate connections and pathways formed in the brain due to enriched environments.