The Power of Nurturing Environments: What We Do + How We Do It Impacts Your Child’s Brain Development
Children’s brains are uniquely shaped by their early experiences and the world around them. These experiences influence both brain connections and the architecture of the brain itself. Every interaction happens within a specific context—what’s going on around the child and within a culture, as well as the norms, values, and structures of the surrounding community. As the Science of Learning and Development Alliance notes, “Culture also shapes how adults view children and, correspondingly, the deeply consequential choices they make as they go about teaching and supporting children.”
In the past, scientists believed that a child’s potential for learning was largely determined by the brain they were born with. Today, research shows that both positive and negative experiences play a profound role in shaping that potential. Early experiences influence how neural connections are formed and strengthened. A child’s ability to thrive, or struggle, depends significantly on the quality of the relationships they have with adults and the overall conditions of their environment.
The structure of the brain—including its size, volume, and function—is shaped over time by these ongoing interactions. Nurturing relationships filled with patience, encouragement, and hope play a key role in the development of the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.
Given what we now know about brain development, it is crucial to design learning environments that are both nurturing and stimulating. Our approach to play-based education at SFLS is intentional—we create spaces that foster curiosity, hope, and confidence in every child.
Key Insight: “The way young people learn and develop depends particularly on where and how they discover who they are.”
Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Experienced, well-trained teachers and staff who understand and embrace this developmental knowledge can have a lasting impact on your child’s future. When this intentional, research-based approach to learning is paired with Christian values and the message of Jesus’s love for every child, we set the foundation for lifelong success—at home, in school, and in the wider community.
About the Author
Brenda Bernard has served as the Preschool Director at Sioux Falls Lutheran School since 2019. With 26 years of experience in the Sioux Falls School District as an elementary special education teacher, early childhood program administrator, and special education coordinator, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. She has also presented on topics including student and teacher resiliency, classroom management, autism, and dyslexia. Passionate about fostering academic, emotional, and spiritual growth in young learners, Brenda is dedicated to continuous learning and collaboration at SFLS.
About Sioux Falls Lutheran School
Sioux Falls Lutheran School is a family-centered community committed to developing capable Christian servant-leaders who are World Ready and Faith Secure. We provide students with the academic, social, emotional, and spiritual tools they need to thrive in today’s complex world. By maintaining high academic standards, employing exceptional teachers, and upholding a Christian worldview rooted in Scripture, we partner with families to nurture children’s God-given gifts and prepare them for a lifetime of faithful service.
Sources:
How the Science of Learning and Development Can Transform Education: INITIAL FINDINGS. The Science of Learning and Development Alliance.