Findings from neuroscience have been gaining ground in education, providing insights to promote the well-being of students and teachers. Among the approaches that stand out is mindfulness, a technique that, according to studies, directly impacts self-awareness and mental well-being.

Daniela Degani, the founder of MindKids, points out that the practice of mindfulness is grounded in neuroscientific evidence showing its influence on brain circuits linked to attention, emotional regulation, and resilience. “Research shows that regular mindfulness practice activates the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for focus and self-regulation, while reducing the reactivity of the amygdala, which is linked to stress and anxiety,” she explains.

According to Daniela, the benefits extend to both students and teachers. For students, there are improvements in concentration, reduced anxiety, and greater academic engagement. For teachers, the benefits include a lower incidence of burnout, increased emotional resilience, and improved relationships with students, as indicated by the Mind & Life Institute (2016).

On the school administration side, Denis Franceschinelli, principal and director of Colégio Samarah, believes that the school plays a crucial role in identifying signs that something is not right and communicating this to the family, ensuring the necessary support for the students’ well-being. “The school environment should be a space where students feel comfortable expressing their emotions, and we, as administrators, have a responsibility to welcome and guide these students in the best possible way,” he says.

The Challenge of Screen Time Limits and the Role of Mindfulness

The recent restriction on cell phone use in schools has sparked discussions about the emotional impacts of this measure. According to Daniela, it is essential that the new rule be accompanied by thoughtful digital education that helps students understand the impact of technology and social media on their lives. “Excessive screen time is directly linked to cognitive and emotional challenges. However, an abrupt withdrawal can lead to a rebound effect of hyperconnectivity outside the school setting,” she warns.

To mitigate these impacts, Daniela suggests measures such as teaching students to monitor their digital habits, incorporating mindfulness practices to train their attention, and balancing screen time with offline activities, such as reading, art, and physical activities.

“At our school, the use of electronic devices was already restricted during arrival and dismissal times, and high school students were allowed to use them only during breaks. With the new restriction, I’ve noticed that students are more open to dialogue and in-person interactions, and they view the change positively,” says Franceschinelli.

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What else can be explored in education based on neuroscience?

Neuroscience has provided valuable insights into learning, but its application in the school setting could still be expanded. “We know that regular breaks promote learning and that emotion plays a key role in memory consolidation—and that excessive stress impairs reasoning and decision-making,” Daniela points out.

According to the principal and founder of Colégio Samarah, “neuroscience is still less present in educational practice than it should be.” In his view, despite the vast amount of research on the subject, applying this knowledge in everyday school life makes a difference in the relationship between students and teachers, in decision-making, and in helping students develop calmness and patience—especially in situations that require attention and focus.

Finally, Daniela points out some promising approaches in neuroscience that still need to be explored further:

• Intentional breaks for focus ( Mindful Breaks Techniques): moments of mindfulness can reduce mental overload and improve academic performance.
• Creativity and critical thinking: Strategies such as reflective writing and storytelling in the classroom stimulate neural networks linked to creativity and deep information processing.
• Sleep and nutrition: Research shows that insufficient rest and an unbalanced diet directly affect students’ memory and concentration.

Mental Health at the 30th Edition of Bett Brasil

The discussion on mental health in schools is one of the guiding themes for the content-related activities at the 30th edition of Bett Brasil, which will take place from April 28 to May 1 at Expo Center Norte.

Daniela Degani and Denis Franceschinelli will be speakers on the panel “What Neuroscience Tells Us About Mental Health in Schools: 6 Strategies You Can Put into Practice Tomorrow, ” on April 29 at 2:00 p.m. at the Administrators’ Forum.

Daniela notes that the panel will present six scientifically grounded practices for making the school environment more conducive to learning and well-being. It will also address the impacts of hyperconnectivity, presenting scientific data and practices that educators and school administrators can implement immediately.

To register for Bett Brasil, click here. Admission is free.

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