Synaptic Pruning in Brain Development

Study Notes

Synaptic pruning is a natural process that occurs in the brain between early childhood and adulthood.
During pruning, the brain eliminates extra synapses, which are brain structures that allow neurons to transmit signals to each other.
This process is like "cleaning" the mind, and it's influenced by genes in early years and life experiences in later life.
Pruning is essential for the brain's efficiency, allowing it to remain efficient and adapt to new complex information as we age.
Emotionally connected information is more difficult to forget or prune.

At 2-3 years old, the brain has the most synapses it will ever have, and then pruning begins.
Between 2-10 years old, about 50% of synapses are lost.

Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to experiences and learning.
It enables the brain to make changes to itself, including forming new neuronal connections.

Functional neuroplasticity: the brain's ability to move functions from damaged areas to undamaged areas.
Structural neuroplasticity: the brain's ability to change its physical structure as a result of learning.

Ways to promote neuroplasticity include learning a new language, expanding vocabulary, using the non-dominant hand, creating artwork, reading, learning new skills, doing puzzles, and mindfulness meditation.