Taking care of brain health secures growth peace and creates the conditions for lifelong well-being
In children and adolescents, the brain goes through a huge process of development and formation, and not all brain functions are yet fully developed to the level they are in adulthood. Thus, in childhood and adolescence, it is important to give the maturation of the brain peace of growth, to support the normal age-related developmental function of the brain and the individual, and especially the development of stress regulation mechanisms. Childhood and adolescence create a sustainable foundation for lifelong brain health and well-being.
Impact objectives:
- Understanding of the prerequisites for brain health related to growth and development has increased, and it guides the development of growth environments
- The operating environments are brain ergonomic and take into account age-appropriate development
- Sufficient amount and quality of sleep according to the stage of development is ensured
- The experience of belonging and safety has strengthened
The Central Union for Child Welfare and Folkhälsan is the coordinating partner of the National Brain Health Programme in planning the implementation and coordinating practical measures.
Evidence-based recommendations
Research on the harmful effects of excessive smartphone use on children's and adolescents' brain health has increased. Parents have expressed concerns about this in everyday life. The National Brain Health Program and the child-friendly city of Lappeenranta (UNICEF) began collaborating on developing recommendations. Experts from the Brain Health Program, docent in adolescent medicine and research director at the Western Uusimaa Welfare Area Silja Kosola, and neuropsychologist and professor of education Nina Sajaniemi have developed evidence-based recommendations for the use of smartphones by children, adolescents, and caregivers. Recommendations that limit smartphone use will help the whole family strengthen their brain health and overall well-being. The recommendations are intended to be implemented throughout Finland.
Challenge campaign: Me vs. the device – which one rules?
The National Brain Health Program, in collaboration with Arabia Primary School, organized the challenge campaign "Me vs. the device – which one rules?". We now challenge all schools in Finland, teachers and other staff, students, as well as parents and other guardians to reflect on their own use of smart devices and to take collective action to reduce screen time!
