Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Are you looking for a little challenge to keep your brain sharp and help it develop?
Look no further than Northern Sunrise County Family and Community Support Service’s Brain Architecture Game being held on May 6 starting at 5:30 p.m. at the St. Isidore Cultural Centre.
“The Brain Architecture Game is a tabletop game designed to help participants understand the impact of early experiences on brain development,” explains FCSS director Amber Houle.
“It illustrates how positive and negative experiences can shape the brain’s architecture, influencing lifelong outcomes for individuals and society.”
Houle says the experience is meant to see what promotes brain development, what derails it and what the consequences can be for society.
“During the workshop, players use materials like pipe cleaners, straws, and weights to build a model of a brain, representing how different experiences affect its structure,” Houle says.
“It’s a hands-on, engaging way to learn about the science of early childhood development and the importance of supportive relationships.”
There is no cost to attend the evening. Houle says it’s a great chance to learn more about the human brain.
“By engaging in this hands-on activity, participants can see how positive and negative experiences impact brain architecture, which in turn affects lifelong outcomes,” says Houle.
“It aims to provide a memorable way to learn about the science of early childhood development and highlights the importance of supportive relationships and the impact of toxic stress.”
The workshop is open to anyone over the age of 15 years, but Houle asks interested participants to register in advance as supper will be provided.
“Children can learn about how their early experiences shape their brain development in a fun and interactive way,” Houle says.
“Participating in the game together can also strengthen family bonds and provide a shared learning experience.”
The evening is being hosted in partnership between FCSS and the Family Resource Network, with the workshop expected to last between 60-90 minutes.
“By hosting this event, Nampa/Northern Sunrise County FCSS and the Family Resource Network aim to empower participants with knowledge and insights that can lead to better support for children and families in the community,” Houle says.
“We also felt it was a great opportunity to share the great work that the Peace Region Family Resource Network offers for our region,” she adds.
Houle says the Brain Architecture Game is a chance for residents to nurture healthy relationships with their children while also showcasing the programs and supports available in the region that support early childhood development.
To register, please call or email Houle at (780) 625-3287 or email ahoule@northernsunrise.net.