The Science
Let’s talk about Epigenetics, Primitive Reflexes, Sensory, Motor, Visual, and Executive Functions.
Epigenetics – it starts here.
There is a LOT to learn about epigenetics. To put it simply – EVERYTHING we are exposed to can affect how our genes express themselves.
Everything from pregnancy conditions, nutrition, stimulation like active time, screen time, and ACEs, to things like family culture, communication styles, and any external environmental factor, can affect the way our genes express themselves which directly affects the way the brain develops.
When we’re exposed to negative external environmental factors, (think: bad diet, too much screen time, trauma, not enough movement, missed motor milestones, etc.) something called methyl markers are created. These are literal black spots that appear on the proteins that surround our DNA, which keeps them from being expressed the exact right way.
But it’s not just about you. Methyl markers can be passed down through 11 DIFFERENT GENERATIONS. Which is crazy to think about. What your great, great, great, great grandparents ate, drank, smoked, stressed out about, the great depression, war, and everything in-between is affecting the way your RNA can read your DNA. And 85 percent of your DNA is directly related to brain development.
Long story short, bad environments in your family history affect the way your brain can develop.
The good news:
By providing a proper environment, we can actually change that genetic expression to affect brain function in a positive way.