What do lack of sleep, frustration, boredom, thirst, and hunger all have in common?
Have you ever been so frustrated that you felt unable to think clearly? This experience is common to all of us. When our brain is under stress, we may behave in ways that are out of character. I know some wonderful individuals who, when behind the wheel and feeling frustrated, transform into a completely different person, honking and expressing their frustration. One of these individuals is my own mother. She is someone who prioritizes others over herself and goes out of her way to help people in ways that I wouldn't even consider. However, if you happen to get in her way after she has already had a frustrating drive, she becomes a horn-honking maniac.
If you've ever been on baby duty or, like me, are currently on puppy duty, you're familiar with the challenges of sleep deprivation. Have you experienced forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating after those restless nights? This phenomenon is commonly referred to as "baby brain," and it is attributed to the lack of sleep.
At some point, we have all experienced sheer boredom. It brings to mind the moments spent with my grandfather. Despite having heard his stories countless times before, he would always engage me in his typical grandfatherly manner, asking, “Lauren, are you following along?” Even though I wasn't, I would always respond with a yes.
Each of these scenarios involves a scientific explanation of the brain's functioning. In these situations, our brain's primal, ancient region takes control to ensure survival. While this instinctual response is beneficial when facing immediate danger, such as evading a predator, it is not ideal for activities like driving, caring for a child, or engaging in conversations with elderly relatives. In these instances, we rely on the more rational parts of our brain for decision-making. Our brains interpret these situations as threats, manifesting as frustration (like when dealing with other drivers), unmet basic needs (as experienced by tired parents), or even boredom (which may trigger a defensive response when listening to repetitive stories).
When our brains perceive a threat, the amygdala becomes dominant and triggers the fight, flight, or freeze response. In this state, we are unable to engage the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for rational thinking. Consequently, a sleep-deprived parent may struggle to locate their keys, my mom may honk impatiently, and I may find it difficult to pay attention to grandad. Now, let's draw a parallel to our students.
Frustrated Student:
Text message from a friend
Frequent past mistakes
Technology (maybe this one is just me)
Social media
Being called on and not knowing the answer
Student without Basic Needs:
Thirsty or hungry
Feeling unsafe (at home or school)
Staying up too late with technology or studying
Bored Student
Doesn't relate to the content
Already learned content
Doesn't have foundational knowledge
So, that is all the bad news: if our students are frustrated, bored, or don't meet their basic needs, they can't learn.
What can you do about it? Better yet, what can THEY do about it?
Step 1: Recognize the threat > "Am I frustrated, bored, hungry, thirsty, tired, or unsafe?"
Step 2: What is the threat?
Basic Need > Fix it!
Frustration > What type of frustration? Ruminating thoughts or just irritated?
· Ruminating > Get brain out of repeated thoughts by things like saying ABC's backward or doing a MadLibs or Suduko
· Irritation > Add dopamine like mindful breathing, exercise, or music
Boredom > help students make personal connections, give them a choice, and grab attention by presenting in exciting ways.
Step 3: Track and see what works and when.
It is important to start teaching our students how to handle challenges early on, so they can be equipped for adulthood. Developing this skill requires years of practice! Given the prevalence of anger and frustration in recent times, it is essential that we empower these young individuals to effectively manage their challenges.
When our amygdala starts to dominate, whether we are teachers or parents, it is crucial to pay attention to our physical sensations as well. This presents a great chance to demonstrate how to respond when the amygdala is activated. Experimenting with these techniques and sharing them with your students can be beneficial. Remember, mirror neurons play a role. :) Consider implementing daily strategies as a group, either in the classroom or at home.
I will teach my mom, you teach your students.
Happy brain boosting!
Quick Reminders for Teachers or Parents:
Remind parents about sending students to school with basic needs met.
Allow and encourage water bottles in your class (drinking eight oz. of water reduces stress and anxiety within 5 minutes).
No phones in class (a glass at one text message will have students gone for the entire class).
No phones during homework.
What type of frustration? Rumination (ABC backwards) Irritation (add dopamine)
Recognize threat takes practice -> track it!
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