Brain 101 for Kids · Lesson 6
How to keep your brain healthy
Your brain does so much for you. Here's how to take care of it every single day!
1. Protect your head
Wear a helmet every time you ride a bike or scooter, skate, skateboard or ski. Helmets lower the chance of a serious head injury by about two thirds. And buckle up in the car every time, in the right car seat, booster seat or seat belt for your size.
If you bump your head hard and feel dizzy, get a headache, feel sick to your stomach, or just feel "not right", stop playing and tell a grown-up. When in doubt, sit it out!
2. Sleep enough
Kids aged 6 to 12 need 9 to 12 hours of sleep. Learn why in Sleep and your brain.
3. Move and play
Aim for at least 60 minutes of active play every day: running, biking, dancing, swimming, climbing. Moving gets your heart pumping blood and oxygen to your brain.
4. Eat a rainbow and drink water
Your brain needs good fuel. Try to eat lots of colors: fruits and vegetables, plus whole grains, beans, eggs, yogurt, fish or nuts (if you are not allergic). Eat breakfast to start your day, and drink water often, especially when it's hot or you're playing hard.
5. Take screen breaks
After screen time, take a break to move, play and look at things far away. Keep screens off during meals and out of the bedroom at night. Ask your family to make a family media plan together.
6. Keep learning and stay connected
Reading, puzzles, music, art and trying new things build new connections in your brain. So do laughing, playing and talking with people you love.
Check My brain power today
Try it! Check your helmet with a grown-up using the 2-V-1 rule. Does it pass?
Quiz 3 quick questions
1. How many fingers should fit between your eyebrows and your helmet?
2. How much active play should kids get each day?
3. You bump your head hard and feel dizzy. What should you do?