Episode #38
The Things that Make a Brain work: Prof Adele Diamond on Executive Function, Stress, Belonging and the Conditions for Learning
What helps a child's brain work at its best? Professor Adele Diamond, one of the world's leading developmental cognitive neuroscientists and a pioneer in executive function research, joins Elle to explore an answer that is surprisingly human. They discuss why stress can derail executive functioning, why joy and belonging aren't "soft extras" to learning, and how relationships and encouragement shape what children believe they can do. Adele explains how executive function skills grow through challenge and practice—and why skills developed in sport, music or play don't automatically transfer to the classroom. The conversation also turns to Montessori education, teacher wellbeing and what African cultures might teach the world about community, connection and learning.
