Abstract
Since the 1990’s advances in technology and scientific research have offered new insights into the neurological development of children. As a result of this work all aspects of education and child care have been reinvigorated with greater understanding of how the brain grows and develops, how this might impact on behaviour and learning and ultimately how early experiences may shape who we become as we grow into adulthood. Worryingly, neuro-scientific research has also been used to perpetuate a number of neuromyths focusing on enrichment and building ‘better brains’ or by suggesting that we can somehow hyper-stimulate development. This presentation focuses on debunking a number of those myths by making sense of brain research, looking at how a child’s mind develops and by exploring how boys and girls may differ. The overall aim of the presentation is founded on providing insights into doing what matters most for children and their developing minds.