Dr. John N. Hatfield
If your children are functioning at a 14-15 age level, they can improve their cognitive development without a "magic pill". Abstract thinking is part of the implicit learning domain and must be developed if a person is to think and react as an adult. To accomplish this at this late date, the brain must be challenged with stimulating activities in a sequential manner. As the brain is challenged to respond to these cognitive tasks, it secretes an substance called neurotrophins which starts the sprouting of new dendrites or fine wirelike nerves. As these dendrites become more complex and elongate, they follow the synapses of the neurons. In doing so, the dendrites form a new neuropathway, bridging over the damaged or underdevelop portion of the brain. This provides the foundation for the person to learn "purposeful" information, whereas the "implicit" domain is learning and developing without awareness. There is a good book from Workman Press (NYC) entitled, Keep Your Brain Alive, by Dr. Lawrence Katz (1999)with a sub-title, 83 Neurobic Exercises. It costs about 8.95 and is available from Amazon.com or from Barns & Noble or similar bookstore. Also, look at our web site on Cognitive Teletherapy for cognitive development via our Internet Enabled System. www.cog-systems.com This provides a clinically controlled program of cognitive exercises that has proven to be extremely effectively. You can also contact us toll free: 1/877-204-1737. We have clients all over the USA, coast to coast, from stroke survivors, gun shot wounds, sports injuries (brain), developmental delays, Downs Syndrome, brain tumors, and other brain-based anomalies, including MS, dementia, etc. Hope this is helpful. Mark Twain, a famous American author, once said, "Common sense [abstract thinking] aint so common." Later...