7th graders learn about stress and the human brain with visiting neuroscientists

This month, we invited neuroscientists Aurélie Lattion and Alexandre Pinault to talk to our 7^th graders about stress management. Sadly, stress is increasingly common in our society, affecting children from a younger and younger age. At Champittet, our psychologists and primary school teachers are highly attuned to issues related to stress and anxiety, which is why we wanted to organise a dedicated workshop on these topics for our students.

Dr Lattion and Dr Pinault are passionate about scientific communication and explaining the effects of stress on our mental and physical health. As parents of young children themselves, they are especially committed to helping kids understand how stress affects the brain.

The two scientists have published an illustrated children’s book, La Fabuleuse Maison Cerveau (The Fabulous Brain House), which uses augmented reality to tell the story of Louisa, a little girl who has lost her beloved blankie. As she confronts this unpleasant situation, we learn about the mechanisms of stress and the intricacies of the human brain. The story relies on simple language and humour to explain what happens in our body when we experience stress, and how to take care of our mental health.

At Champittet, Dr Lattion and Dr Pinault discussed these concepts with our Grade 7 classes. The workshop offered a wonderful opportunity for our students to ask questions and learn more about this vital topic.

Dr Lattion and Dr Pinault can often be found leading workshops for children at schools, bookstores, libraries and festivals across Switzerland. Fans of La Fabuleuse Maison Cerveau will be glad to know that the authors are currently working on a second volume, to be supported through crowdfunding.