Factors protecting the brain health of children and young people

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.

Experts group of children and young people (families)

• Tiina Ristikari, tutkimusprofessori (Itla)
• Emmi Jäkkö, toiminnanjohtaja (Lukukeskus)
• Kai Kaila, professori (HY)
• Silja Kosola, dosentti (HY)
• Taina Laajasalo, johtava asiantuntija (THL)
• Päivi Lindberg, johtava asiantuntija (THL)
• Kaisu Muuronen, kehittämispäällikkö (LSKL)
• Marie Rautava, ohjelmajohtaja (MLL)
• Leena Repokari, ylilääkäri (HUS)
• Aino Saarinen, yliopistonlehtori (HY)
• Nina Sajaniemi, professori (UEF)
• Kirjalliset kommentit: Mirjam Kalland, professori (HY)