Brain Flow

I just arrived home from yet another study walk with Stefan (what a perfect fall day by the way...sun wasn't too hot, there was a lot of shade patches, a slight breeze and the scent of pine in the air. A year ago today I think about "where" I was, and this is so much better!)- I take my music class lessons and practice them, sing the songs, deliver the parent education, sing the songs, practice the activities in my head, sing the songs again:) ...I know I've said all this in a previous post.

Have you ever noticed TV jingles and radio songs that are play redundantly drill into your brain like little worms (ear worms I call them). This isn't an accident, those jingle writers know, repeating a catchy tune sells- and is advertising in our heads long after the commercial/show is over. It's always the most annoying ones that stick too, aren't we lucky? Part of why this happens is related to how music uses both sides of the brain. Unfortunately, when I'm walking, I don't have aural access to my songs, which would make them stick so much quicker and better. However, and this is the very cool part, exercise seems to make up for loosing the aural advantage, for me at least. We all learn a little differently, verbal and visual are my stronger methods, so the whole walking reading and listening while driving thing really works for me. This is one of the reason our public education system needs a revamp...too much rote, sitting quietly at a desk reading. That's another post for another blog!

When we move, we are usually using both sides of our brain. To have non-moving thoughts stick better (that is whatever you're trying to learn or memorize), it is best to move while studying them. Stefan's carriage is a great book holder! I also practice songs while doing chores like vacuuming, dishes, etc...usually I'm moving to complete the chores. Aerobic exercise, for a person who is in shape, will keep that extra powerful learning going up to 2 hours after it is completed.

I'm excited for when Stefan is a bit older and can actually do things to learn. Oh I know he is learning all sorts of things from what he is doing now, but I'm referring to those dirt up to your elbows, fun learning situations we'll be having out back in the woods. For now, he's content (and safer) throwing blocks across the room to learn more about gravity, practicing physics while splashing in water, and licking toys to understand them better (he's so discriminating with the licking, it's hilarious).