Jack’s Brain, Jill’s Brain: Gender Differences and Why They Matter

This workshop introduces participants to the rapidly emerging research on how the brains of females and males are developmentally, structurally and functionally different. Based on these differences, participants will learn academic approaches customized to the distinctly different learning styles of girls and boys.

Learning Objectives

1. To introduce participants to the rapidly emerging research on how the brains of females and males are developmentally, structurally and functionally different. Participants will identify how the male brain is significantly different than the female brain during the many stages of childhood and adolescent development.
2. To acquaint participants with the practical application of this research to behavioral and emotional interventions provided to females and males by caretakers and educators, with specific focus on helping both sexes avoid high risk activities such as drug use, alcohol abuse and sexual activity. Participants will learn and practice 6 techniques for helping children and adolescents avoid high risk behavior using methods customized for each sex.

To expose participants to the growing body of resources on brain-compatible counseling, guidance, mentoring and parenting techniques including books, newsletters, websites, conferences and workshops. Participants will be able to locate brain-based resources in their community and via the web.