Understanding the Mysteries
Of the Teenage Brain

Recent neuroscience research reveals that the brain is undergoing dramatic upheaval and change in adolescence. Throughout the teen years, the vulnerability of the developing brain presents risks and challenges coupled with
tremendous capacity for growth.

You are invited to participate in this fascinating, interactive presentation on the teenage brain, a work in progress!

  • Gain insight into the mysteries of teen behaviors by exploring key findings of the development and workings of the adolescent brain.
  • Apply this information in practical ways to effectively work with challenges inherent in these developing years, such as: impulsive behavior, moodiness, miscommunication, quickness to anger, dangerous risk taking, stress and depression.
  • Understand why a teen’s nature makes them especially vulnerable to experimenting with drugs and how substance abuse impacts brain development.
  • Learn positive ways to communicate with and stay connected to teens.
  • Experience effective teaching strategies designed to engage the brain.
  • Share this information to empower teens to cope with the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities of this important time.
  • Receive a manual filled with information, resources and strategies.

Your presenter is Victoria Tennant, M.Ed.

Victoria is an educational consultant with 38 years of experience, including 10 years as a classroom teacher. Her current workshops and curriculum materials reflect a synthesis of 28 years of studying and presenting implications and applications of brain/mind research. She is the author of Healthy Beginnings – Nurturing Children’s Growing Minds™, and Calming Ourselves in Stressful Moments™, both published by Comprehensive Health Education Foundation. Presentations on Teen Brain Development in 2004-09 include Washington State Public Schools and Educational Service Districts, Parent-Teacher Associations, Juvenile Justice Systems, DSHS including Prevention Services, WA. State Librarians, and other state organizations. She has presented for numerous conferences and was the keynote speaker for the statewide BECCA/TRUANCY Conference in 2007.

Victoria is a Content Editor for two high school text books on brain development to be published by Glencoe/McGraw Hill Publishing Company in 2010.

Schedule a Presentation

This presentation is available in the following formats:

1.5 to 2 hours @ $700
3 hours @ $1,000
4 hours @ $1,500
6 hours @ $2,000

Fee for a keynote presentation is determined by the event.

Travel expenses are additional and include airfare (plus transportation to and from airport and workshop site) or mileage (round trip Olympia @ IRS allowable rate), meals and lodging.

Masters for a manual will be provided, to be printed by sponsor for participants.

The Thinking Brain

Prefrontal Cortex: brain’s CEO is under construction

The circuitry of the teen’s developing prefrontal cortex often goes “off line”, making it unreliable for executive functions such as thinking through consequences and planning ahead.

The Thinking Brain

Limbic System: emotional brain is “on high”

Teen’s emotions often drive their behavior; with the CEO “off line” they have trouble controlling their impulses.

The Thinking Brain

Brain Stem: quickly shifts into survival mode when stressed

Stress shuts down the thinking brain and puts the defensive, reactive survival brain in charge.