1. Robin Hewitt Edu 417 Cognitive Studies Capstone Angela Coleman

3. Neurotransmitters (NT’s) are “chemical messengers” produced by the body. They participate in electro-chemical communication from one nerve cell to another or one nerve cell to various organs in the body (such as nerve communication with muscle).

4. Neutotransmitters allow electro-chemical communication between nerve cells. Nerve cells (called “neurons”) do not actually touch each other. Instead they are in close proximity with a “gap” (synapse) between each nerve cell. The electrical signal is relayed from one neuron to the next by neurotransmitters. NT’s released at the end of one nerve cell float across the synapse where they bind to receptors on the next neuron in sequence, triggering an electrical impulse.

5.  When dopamine is present during an event or experience, we remember it; when it is absent, nothing seems to stick. There are actually some regions of the brain that increase our motivation and interest in activities. Often referred to collectively as the reward center, the regions are activated by dopamine. And the more motivated and interested we are in an activity the more dopamine is released and the better we remember it. The reward center helps us to stay focused and repeat activities that were reinforced through positive outcomes

6. Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that provide you chemically with the feeling of satisfaction and pleasure. When levels of these neurotransmitters are low, you can experience depression. The brain produces dopamine from the essential amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine, Foods that contain vitamin B-6 and those that increase tyrosine or tryptophan in the body help to establish healthy levels of both dopamine and serotonin.(Juhaz,2011)

7. Serotonin is known to regulate aging, learning and memory.]During early phase of aging, the level of serotonin increases, which alters locomotory behaviors and associative memory.Serotonin level goes down in mammals and humans, which is typically seen in late but not early phase of aging.]

8. Since it has so many diverse and important roles in the body, serotonin levels are key to health mentally and physically. Because its so common in all kinds of animals, serotonin can be found in a variety of foods. The highest concentrations are found in: walnuts plantains pineapples bananas kiwis plums tomatoes These foods can boost serotonin levels in the gut, ensuring rapid communication (Wilcox 2010)

9.  Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter in the nervous system. It is found in both peripheral and central nervous systems as well as in the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems.  While acetylcholine activates muscles and seems to produce predominantly excitatory responses in the peripheral nervous system, it is mainly a neuromodulator in the central nervous system. As a neuromodulator, acetylcholine helps sustain attention by enhancing sensory perception while we are awake. While we are asleep, it promotes the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep.(Chase 2010)

10. Ensuring Adequate nutrition Plenty of rest at home Breaks during learning to give the brain a break Utilizing the child's own learning style to help make memories Provide positive outcomes

11. References Chase, B. (2010). Memory and Acetylcholine. Retrieved from Progressive Health: http://www.progressivehealth.com/cognitive-function-acetylcholine.htm Jossey -Bass. (2008). The Brain and Learning. San Francisco: John Wiley and Sons. Juhasz, F. (2011, January). Nutritiona Facts on Serotonin and Dopamine. Retrieved from Livestrong: http://www.livestrong.com/article/370538-nutritional- facts-on-serotonin-and-dopamine/ Wilcox, C. (2009, June). Understanding Our Bodies: Serotonin, The Connection Between Food and Mood. Retrieved from Nutrition Wonderland: http://nutritionwonderland.com/2009/06/understanding-bodies-serotonin- connection-between-food-and-mood/ Wolfe, P. (2010). Brain Matters. Alexandria : ASCD.