Ask the Author: Jeni Hooper
Answered Questions (7)
Jeni Hooper
We know that the brain is extremely adaptable and healing can take place under the right conditions. Loving support is a key factor which as well as being practical also leads to a change in biochemistry in the brain which helps development.
We are still learning about how this works and there are limits to reversing damaging experiences as we know from research with Romanian orphans. Their physical needs were met but otherwise there was no love and little mental stimulation. Among those who were later adopted many made huge improvements but rarely caught up completely. Another reason on top of the obvious humane one for preventing abuse and neglect as we can't guarantee therapeutic reversal of harm.
We are still learning about how this works and there are limits to reversing damaging experiences as we know from research with Romanian orphans. Their physical needs were met but otherwise there was no love and little mental stimulation. Among those who were later adopted many made huge improvements but rarely caught up completely. Another reason on top of the obvious humane one for preventing abuse and neglect as we can't guarantee therapeutic reversal of harm.
Jeni Hooper
I tell myself to write something down and to see where it goes. Often if I'm stuck writing about a particular topic I can work my way back round to it by giving myself some freedom to wander off the straight path.
Jeni Hooper
There are often news items which spark my interest and get me writing. This is why I write a blog.
Jeni Hooper
I am passionate about the importance of a good childhood. So often adults assume they know what is best for a child without paying attention to the obvious signs of what brings out that child's strengths. We are each of us unique and have tremendous potential if we receive the love and support which allows us to become our best selves. Writing provides the opportunity to share my experience as a Child Psychologist working with children and their families and schools for over 30 years.
Jeni Hooper
Write about what you know. Set time aside and just write, even on days when you don't initially feel inspired. The first sentence is often the hardest.
Jeni Hooper
There were lots of books being written about Positive Psychology from the adult viewpoint but very little about the importance of healthy early experience and its impact on wellbeing. In my educational psychology practice I has developed a parent programme The Flourishing Programme as a step by step guide to what children need to flourish. My book What Children need to be Happy, Confident and Successful describes how to support a child's emotional development, their learning and to build their resilience.
Jeni Hooper
I am working on a guide to play which explores its evolutionary purpose and details how children's development depends on regular opportunities to play. Like many people I am concerned that children are now allowed less freedom and have their time organised for them. Play underpins development of the mind and the body and without it progress is impaired. I like to keep things positive so the main body of the book identifies ways to make play safe, accessible and lots of fun.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more