The Brain & Academics

Understanding the way each hemisphere of the brain works is imperative to understanding how a child processes academic endeavors.  Through this understanding & identification of strengths and weaknesses of each hemisphere, parents and educators can determine the best way for each student to succeed academically.

The left and right brain each process information in different ways.  Although there is a dominant side, learning is enhanced when all of the senses are used and the hemispheres of the brain work together.

Left-brain deficiencies are often labled as:

  • Dyslexia
  • Reading Disorder
  • Auditory Processing Disorder
  • Language Disorder
  • Processing Disorder
  • Learning Disability
  • Depression

The left side of the brain processes symbols used in academic pursuits such as letters, words & mathematical notation.  People who are left side dominant tend to memorize words and formulas because this side of the brain is more conducive to linguistics and mathematical formulas.  This student will most likely be a good speller, utilize outlines and enjoy structure.

Right-brain deficiencies are often labled as:

  • ADD / ADHD
  • Asperger’s Syndrome
  • Autism
  • Obessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Tourette’s Syndrome
  • Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PPD)
  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
  • Conduct Disorder (CD)
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD)

The right-brained person wants to see and feel things in order to learn.  They have trouble learning through phonics and prefer hands-on activities.  This student would most likely illustrate notes and draw out mathematical formulas.  A right-brained person will pay more attention to coherence and is more creative than an out-of-the-box thinker.

If your child is struggling academically they may have a weakness in one hemisphere or the communication between hemispheres may be out of sync.  The goal of the Brain Balance program is to correct those imbalances and allow the brain to function as a whole.  At Brain Balance we offer an encouraging environment which focuses on each brain function individually, then integrates it with other functions.  Visit our facebook page, Brain Balance Southlake, for more information and family testimonials.

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