The brain is a truly miraculous electro-chemical processor. As we learn our brain-cells neurons pass information along at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour! For young children, who have twice as many neurons as adults, play, exercise, experience and challenge are major sources of learning. Brain-compatible learning is here and has come to affect all realms of planning and execution at the school whether its learning environments, curriculum, teaching strategies discipline, music or art according to Eric Jensen, author of Teaching with the Brain in Mind.

Optimal learning occurs when our brains are appropriately challenged. However, when the learning challenge is too threatening, our brains ‘down-shift’ (Hart. 1983). Numerous studies support that a school environment must be one that challenges the brain in non-threatening ways and makes use of the visual and performing arts for teaching and for building emotive expressiveness, language, problem-solving skills, creativity and memory (Simmons, 1995). Ina well-designed school, both architecture and landscaping are to be aesthetically stimulating. Such a school environment engages, challenges and influences brain development.
Physical activity is essential in promoting the growth of mental function. Exercise brings more oxygen to the brain, enhancing connections between neurons. Spinning, rolling, tumbling, swinging, crawling and jumping strengthen the brain’s main areas: the cerebellum, corpus callousum and basal ganglia (Brink, 1995). Learning has been found to be enhanced by daily stretching, walking, dancing and other physical movement(Jenson, 1998). To accommodate these areas, a school needs spacious areas.

Inside the school, quality ventilation and adequate drinking water facility is vital. Jenses states that an essential ingredient form proper functioning is oxygen. Without fresh air we can’t expect the brain to function at its best. Moreover the electrolytic balance for proper brain functioning comes from water. Otherwise dehydration, a common classroom problem, leads to lethargy and impaired learning. Furthermore, quality lighting and appropriate colours improve visual processing and emotive conditions.