Unlocking Potential Enhancing Brain Health and Development with Dr. Rebecca Jackson

Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on SpecialEd.fm.

Host: Dana Jonson
Guest: Dr. Rebecca Jackson
Chief Programs Officer, Brain Balance, Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist, and Doctor of Chiropractic.

Guest Bio:
Dr. Rebecca Jackson is a brain health expert and the Chief Programs Officer at Brain Balance. She is also a Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist and a Doctor of Chiropractic with over 15 years of dedicated research and hands-on application in cognitive development. She has passionately worked to improve the well-being of children and adults, authoring the book Back on Track to offer practical guidance on helping individuals of all ages thrive.

Introduction:

In this episode, Dana Jonson speaks with Dr. Rebecca Jackson, an expert in brain health and cognitive development. They explore the Brain Balance program, the neuroscience behind developmental challenges, and Dr. Jackson’s new book Back on Track. The conversation covers brain development, attention issues, and strategies for strengthening cognitive function in children and adults.

Episode Summary:

Dr. Rebecca Jackson shares her professional journey from chiropractic care to becoming a leader in brain health. She introduces Brain Balance, a program designed to improve brain function and development through physical and cognitive activities. Dr. Jackson and Dana discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of cognitive and behavioral challenges rather than just focusing on the symptoms. They also touch on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's brain development and mental health. Dr. Jackson explains the concepts from her book Back on Track, offering practical advice for parents and educators to help children overcome developmental challenges.

Key Discussion Points:

• Dr. Jackson’s professional journey and her involvement in brain health and cognitive development.

• The Brain Balance program: strengthening and improving the brain for both children and adults without focusing solely on diagnoses.

• How foundational development affects executive functions, attention, emotional regulation, and behavior.

• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's mental health and cognitive development.

• The importance of addressing root causes of cognitive challenges rather than simply treating symptoms.

• Dr. Jackson’s book Back on Track, and how it provides strategies for parents to optimize their child’s brain health and development.

• Practical advice for improving attention, executive function, and emotional regulation in children.

Guest's Insights and Advice:

• Attention and development: Attention struggles in children and adults can be related to gaps in foundational brain development. Strengthening brain function can help address these issues.

• Practical solutions: Improving brain health can be achieved through simple, daily activities involving movement, sensory stimulation, and proper nutrition.

• Parent involvement: Parents need to be proactive in identifying potential cognitive challenges in their children and understand that behavior may reflect underlying brain development issues.

• Consistency: It’s important to incorporate healthy brain habits consistently for long-term benefits.

Resources Mentioned:

• Back on Track by Dr. Rebecca Jackson — Practical guidance for improving brain health and development.

• Brain Balance Program — A comprehensive program designed to strengthen brain connectivity in both children and adults.

• Visit Brain Balance for more information.

Call to Action:

After listening to this episode, consider reflecting on your child's development and behavior. Identify areas where they may be struggling and explore options like Brain Balance to strengthen their cognitive abilities. For more detailed strategies, pick up a copy of Dr. Jackson's book Back on Track.

Engagement and Sharing:

• Share the Episode with a Friend: If you found this episode helpful, share it with other parents or educators who could benefit from learning about brain health and cognitive development.

• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the show, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help support Special Ed on Special Ed.

• Follow Dr. Rebecca Jackson on Social Media:
  Facebook: @DrRebeccaJackson
  LinkedIn: Dr. Rebecca Jackson

• Follow Dana Jonson on Social Media:
  Twitter: @SpecialEdCast

If you like this episode, be sure to check out:

Neurodiversity Unveiled: Beyond the Should Storm of Parenting with Dr. Alison Escalante

Memorable Quote:

"A tired brain is going to have a harder time paying attention. We must strengthen and support brain health from the ground up to help children thrive." — Dr. Rebecca Jackson

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.