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Create a Better Brain through Neuroplasticity: A Manual for Mamas
Practical neuroplasticity can truly be life changing for children dealing with ADHD, Autism, and brain damage. You will learn how to change your child's brain so they can be happier, more self-disciplined, self-confident, and self-motivated (Mama too)! Help your child become the leader of the pack, excelling in all academics. Be amazed as you learn how music and physical activity causes the brain to actually increase in volume. On the flip side, we will examine activities and mindsets that will cause damage to the brain. Learn from the latest medical research, read quotes from the best doctors in the field of neuroplasticity, and enjoy riveting, real-life stories of neuroplasticity in action.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2019
54 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 9, 2021
This book is largely composed of the author’s very biased opinions. There is some science presented, but most of the scientific studies cited are presented to imply a causative relationship when a correlative relationship is present at best. I would highly recommend finding an alternate book on neuroplasticity that is more evidence based.
March 2, 2021
Super disappointed in this book. The author's knowledge of the nervous system is basic (at least what is presented does not show enough knowledge to impart confidence in the information). While some studies are referenced many of the author's opinions have no study referenced and are simply her opinion. Plus to repeatedly claim that mental illness is not inherent in some people due to genetics and can be cured by will is ridiculous. In fact it is pretty offensive to those who suffer from mental illness or have children who suffer. Basically, there is not enough fact to take this book seriously.
January 17, 2023
Very basic overview of Neuroplasticity, and how it’s useful in life. I was hoping for more depth and instruction, but given who the author is, it makes sense. I was left encouraged and convicted, so it was worth the read.
November 2, 2019
I found this book fascinating and engaging. It appears to be well researched and has a good list of references for further reading on the subject. Neuroplasticity is a relatively new science that teaches us the brain can remap itself and possibly even bring healing. I enjoyed the chapters on helping our children grow their brains through music, language, touch, nature, and imaginative play. It was helpful to learn what actually happens in our child's brain when engaged in these types of activities. We all know that excessive screen time can be detrimental to our children's development, but the author points out that it is not so much the influence of bad content (though that can be a serious problem) but what our child's brain is not doing when held captive by the screen.
I also enjoyed the chapter on mindfulness and the brain "grooves" our thoughts make, whether positive or negative. The author talks about a number of other subjects, including the brain-gut connection, autism, addiction and the brain, the brain physiology of young adults, and concussions. She includes a number of real life stories to support her points.
I am interested in reading further on this subject and am excited for the possibilities and hope that neuroplasticity has to offer our families and society.
I also enjoyed the chapter on mindfulness and the brain "grooves" our thoughts make, whether positive or negative. The author talks about a number of other subjects, including the brain-gut connection, autism, addiction and the brain, the brain physiology of young adults, and concussions. She includes a number of real life stories to support her points.
I am interested in reading further on this subject and am excited for the possibilities and hope that neuroplasticity has to offer our families and society.
November 8, 2023
This provides a very basic overview of neuroplasticity. I could've learned as much talking to various of my brain-smart, teacher and counselor friends for a few hours.😉😉
Secondly, the book is very poorly written. Like it hurts me to read some parts of it. Organization and formatting? Not present. Was it self-published? Oh, sure enough.
Also, Debi Pearl is just... uuuummmmmmm... a bit much. Maybe if I homeschool, don't vaccinate, avoid red dye like the plague, don't let my husband carry his phone in his pocket to avoid autistic babies (what?), make my kids wear helmets around any possible concussion risk, and feed my family all the right fermented food, my kids' brains will stand a chance. And I'd do this all based on Debi Pearl's personal recommendation given the slim amount of scientific references in this science book. Yikes 😬
Two stars for the emphasis on outdoor creative play, information about music therapy, and random new facts I learned about the brain.
Secondly, the book is very poorly written. Like it hurts me to read some parts of it. Organization and formatting? Not present. Was it self-published? Oh, sure enough.
Also, Debi Pearl is just... uuuummmmmmm... a bit much. Maybe if I homeschool, don't vaccinate, avoid red dye like the plague, don't let my husband carry his phone in his pocket to avoid autistic babies (what?), make my kids wear helmets around any possible concussion risk, and feed my family all the right fermented food, my kids' brains will stand a chance. And I'd do this all based on Debi Pearl's personal recommendation given the slim amount of scientific references in this science book. Yikes 😬
Two stars for the emphasis on outdoor creative play, information about music therapy, and random new facts I learned about the brain.
August 20, 2020
This book is not as practical as the title would lead you to expect, for whatever its worth. There’s some interesting stuff here, but I experienced some doubt over some of the more dramatic anecdotes. Also, pornography is terrible but it is not the only way that people learn about perversions; emotional trauma leads to sexual struggles of all kinds.
January 9, 2021
I found this book highly fascinating. I will be returning to it often and gleaning more knowledge from it and from further research on the subject of neuroplasticity. I definitely recommend this read.
January 30, 2023
Loved this one. Even my husband enjoyed hearing about it. There were a lot of helpful tips for moms and adults as well.
Obviously, with the Pearls some things are always taken a bit to the extreme, so I’m always wary with their books. This one very heavy on science and not heavy on theology so that was fitting. There were Scripture verses and some biblical principles sprinkled throughout though.
Obviously, with the Pearls some things are always taken a bit to the extreme, so I’m always wary with their books. This one very heavy on science and not heavy on theology so that was fitting. There were Scripture verses and some biblical principles sprinkled throughout though.
November 11, 2021
This book is packed with practical knowledge and wisdom for mamas. It reinforced a lot of my goals for parenting and gave me new vision in some areas! A must read if you are a parent.
February 12, 2023
My second time reading. I adore this incredible book
May 27, 2025
Dads can find a lot of this information very useful and applicable as well. Very much-needed insight into the function of the brain.
January 17, 2020
Fascinating book. Debi writes in a very readable and somewhat motherly way. This book, while written with mothers in mind, has application to just about anyone. Debi doesn’t seem to have any particular credentials, but the book is written from a standpoint of research and experience, not simply opinion. The author uses illustrative stories to help explain some of the more complex concepts. She writes from a Christian perspective and often ties in scripture. If I could sum the book up in a few words it would be this: “Take an intentional, informed, and common sense approach to your health.” It is a recommended read even though I may not endorse everything the author recommends.
August 31, 2020
This book is for everyone; not just mamas. It is very encouraging on how you can change the way you think & how you can help others. I especially appreciated the section on autism. Very detailed but not difficult to understand.
May 7, 2020
"In former days, I remember that many of the ladies brought their knitting to church. The preacher knew that they were listening much better than the hypnotized people staring at him as he spoke."
For this section alone, I love Debi Pearl and her book "Create a Better Brain through Neuroplasticity". As a very active workaholic who rarely remembers to sleep, it's nearly impossible for me to stay awake sitting still, no matter be it for the most boring of movies or most intersting of sermons. And thus I often bring something for my fingers.
There seems to be this belief that knitting or sewing is disrespectful in church. I've never understood how that could be. Not when it's now accepted for women to wear jeans and for men to forget their belts (if they even had them to begin with, which I highly doubt as most children seem too tender to have ever even known what such a contraption is).
So, it was encouraging to see someone who understands what it means to be truly respectful, and justify my knitting.
As for the rest of the book. It pretty much reinforced some things I already knew, adding some science to make that knowledge more authentic.
Basically:
You are what you think AND what you eat. Your brain is constantly growing or shrinking according to the food you eat and the thoughts you ponder. Your attitude starts with your thoughts and ends with your gut and vice versa. All this applies to self, children, and even relationships (there's a really interesting chapter about how we basically bathe too much which is detrimental for mate-searching as our "stench" is what really creates that "love at first sight" feeling).
The only part I didn't really like was what she said about all youth under 25. Yes, I agree that my brain isn't fully developed and that I am stupid. But that stupidity won't vanish by next year, I'm afraid. Also, I'd like to humbly argue that my brain, even incomplete, is farther advanced and even has more capacity than many older people who have discarded the contents of their brain willingly. My brain ,unfinished as it is, might have more potential than one who lost the ability to think. Just the thought that went through my head. And I totally don't mean to disrespect those of experience and wisdom; I just don't think it's completely right to devalue my opinions on my age alone.
Yes, I'm stupid and immature. But I will always be that way to some extent. And yet, just because I'm only 23 doesn't mean that my ideas and beliefs are invalid compared to that of someone who happens to have years over me. I may have misunderstood that chapter. I still agreed with most of it. I'll admit that I'm stupid. But I will not say those words to myself every day just because I'm not yet 25.
As for the scientific parts: they felt authentic. There were chapters written by doctors. And Debi Pearl seemed to have done her research well. Even so, the book stands even without the science. Because it's pure sense.
If you think you're stuck in a rut, read this book.
If you believe there's no hope for you becoming more, read this book.
If you have bad addictions or want to create better habits, read this book.
I found it fascinating.
I'm not sure why this review came out so snarky. I truly devoured the book.
For this section alone, I love Debi Pearl and her book "Create a Better Brain through Neuroplasticity". As a very active workaholic who rarely remembers to sleep, it's nearly impossible for me to stay awake sitting still, no matter be it for the most boring of movies or most intersting of sermons. And thus I often bring something for my fingers.
There seems to be this belief that knitting or sewing is disrespectful in church. I've never understood how that could be. Not when it's now accepted for women to wear jeans and for men to forget their belts (if they even had them to begin with, which I highly doubt as most children seem too tender to have ever even known what such a contraption is).
So, it was encouraging to see someone who understands what it means to be truly respectful, and justify my knitting.
As for the rest of the book. It pretty much reinforced some things I already knew, adding some science to make that knowledge more authentic.
Basically:
You are what you think AND what you eat. Your brain is constantly growing or shrinking according to the food you eat and the thoughts you ponder. Your attitude starts with your thoughts and ends with your gut and vice versa. All this applies to self, children, and even relationships (there's a really interesting chapter about how we basically bathe too much which is detrimental for mate-searching as our "stench" is what really creates that "love at first sight" feeling).
The only part I didn't really like was what she said about all youth under 25. Yes, I agree that my brain isn't fully developed and that I am stupid. But that stupidity won't vanish by next year, I'm afraid. Also, I'd like to humbly argue that my brain, even incomplete, is farther advanced and even has more capacity than many older people who have discarded the contents of their brain willingly. My brain ,unfinished as it is, might have more potential than one who lost the ability to think. Just the thought that went through my head. And I totally don't mean to disrespect those of experience and wisdom; I just don't think it's completely right to devalue my opinions on my age alone.
Yes, I'm stupid and immature. But I will always be that way to some extent. And yet, just because I'm only 23 doesn't mean that my ideas and beliefs are invalid compared to that of someone who happens to have years over me. I may have misunderstood that chapter. I still agreed with most of it. I'll admit that I'm stupid. But I will not say those words to myself every day just because I'm not yet 25.
As for the scientific parts: they felt authentic. There were chapters written by doctors. And Debi Pearl seemed to have done her research well. Even so, the book stands even without the science. Because it's pure sense.
If you think you're stuck in a rut, read this book.
If you believe there's no hope for you becoming more, read this book.
If you have bad addictions or want to create better habits, read this book.
I found it fascinating.
I'm not sure why this review came out so snarky. I truly devoured the book.
December 24, 2022
While I don’t endorse any of her other books as she has some very bad teaching, I was very intrigued by this book as it was recommended by someone on instagram. I went into conscientiously, unsure as to whether her terrible marriage & parenting ideas would make their way into this book. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was not infiltrated those ideas.
However, I will start with what I disliked. there was one moment where it did make its way in. Specifically when discussing teenagers and their under developed prefrontal cortexes. While there is a necessary humbling that every teenager needs, it is fairly foolish and stupid to suggest that teenagers be reminded that they are stupid, don’t know any better and that their parents know best. Maybe she was exaggerating, but there’s no way to know aside from just taking her at her words in the book.
That was my only qualm with the book.
She accomplishes her intent very well. This book was essentially a primer into neuroplasticity. I am licensed as a physical therapist assistant and had the joy of working with many neuro patients (specially stroke, tbi and some Parkinson’s and early stage dementia patients) so I was very excited to expand my knowledge on neuroplasticity. Many things were things I learned and studied in school, and did not see any inaccuracies that did not line up with what I learned nor my experience working with these patients, which was a pleasant surprise.
She handled the topic of vaccines and their effect on the gut and brain in a very tactful way, and when discussing autism gave many reasons why autism may occur and did not fully attribute it to vaccines. While also informing us of the affects of them on the body.
I particularly enjoyed the section on the gut-brain connection. And I enjoyed all her discussions on children and I believe she gave many practical insights on helping encourage good brain development in a very attainable way.
I also appreciate that she brought in a PT & and chiropractor to write on certain topics, who seemed to affirm the things she researched and found.
Her husband wrote a chapter on addiction - which I am not well versed on addiction and how it works, but my husband was listening with me and pointed out many things he disagreed with - like addiction first being a brain issue rather than a heart issue scripturally speaking.
Overall, this is a great book and I highly recommend.
However, I will start with what I disliked. there was one moment where it did make its way in. Specifically when discussing teenagers and their under developed prefrontal cortexes. While there is a necessary humbling that every teenager needs, it is fairly foolish and stupid to suggest that teenagers be reminded that they are stupid, don’t know any better and that their parents know best. Maybe she was exaggerating, but there’s no way to know aside from just taking her at her words in the book.
That was my only qualm with the book.
She accomplishes her intent very well. This book was essentially a primer into neuroplasticity. I am licensed as a physical therapist assistant and had the joy of working with many neuro patients (specially stroke, tbi and some Parkinson’s and early stage dementia patients) so I was very excited to expand my knowledge on neuroplasticity. Many things were things I learned and studied in school, and did not see any inaccuracies that did not line up with what I learned nor my experience working with these patients, which was a pleasant surprise.
She handled the topic of vaccines and their effect on the gut and brain in a very tactful way, and when discussing autism gave many reasons why autism may occur and did not fully attribute it to vaccines. While also informing us of the affects of them on the body.
I particularly enjoyed the section on the gut-brain connection. And I enjoyed all her discussions on children and I believe she gave many practical insights on helping encourage good brain development in a very attainable way.
I also appreciate that she brought in a PT & and chiropractor to write on certain topics, who seemed to affirm the things she researched and found.
Her husband wrote a chapter on addiction - which I am not well versed on addiction and how it works, but my husband was listening with me and pointed out many things he disagreed with - like addiction first being a brain issue rather than a heart issue scripturally speaking.
Overall, this is a great book and I highly recommend.
May 18, 2020
Less than the fingers of one hand have I ever rated a book as five stars, but this is one.
It isn't a literary masterpiece so to speak, yet it is a masterpiece of a life of wisdom and information making miracles a possibility for you personally, and others you might find in the path of your life.
A gift of a life of experience you might say, is freely offered to anyone simply to take.
Treasures just waiting to be opened.
I recommend it to anyone and everyone.
** A note about the detractors you may find when looking for others opinions;
When one writes words in a negative way about the book, you will find that it is hatred seemingly directed at the author, yet it's not really at the author for these do not and cannot find fault with the information.
The information contained is scientifically proven, it's simply hatred of God whom the author loves.
The hatred is for no other reason.
If you give ear to these asinine haters, you will deny yourself the possibility of a miracle happening to you personally.
It isn't a literary masterpiece so to speak, yet it is a masterpiece of a life of wisdom and information making miracles a possibility for you personally, and others you might find in the path of your life.
A gift of a life of experience you might say, is freely offered to anyone simply to take.
Treasures just waiting to be opened.
I recommend it to anyone and everyone.
** A note about the detractors you may find when looking for others opinions;
When one writes words in a negative way about the book, you will find that it is hatred seemingly directed at the author, yet it's not really at the author for these do not and cannot find fault with the information.
The information contained is scientifically proven, it's simply hatred of God whom the author loves.
The hatred is for no other reason.
If you give ear to these asinine haters, you will deny yourself the possibility of a miracle happening to you personally.
May 24, 2024
This is a very interesting book and for me it was hard to put down! I enjoy science and this concept is very intriguing, and has been proven to be truth.
As parents, we know we have so much influence and are responsible for shaping our children’s minds. This book offers an explanation of what goes on in the mind and gives tips for how to “create a better brain.”
I thought it was wonderful and as I have practiced some of these things with my own children I see the truth in it.
The main thing Debi could have done better with was the fact that she states her own opinions as fact very frequently throughout the book. I understand that with science it has to be applied in order to help people, and because she doesn’t have many credentials she is basically just sharing her opinion with facts sprinkled in. I do think she took it too far in some areas. We are not in control of everything and that is a fact. However, it was brain food for me and I’m very glad I read this book.
I think every mom should take the time to read this and think about it.
As parents, we know we have so much influence and are responsible for shaping our children’s minds. This book offers an explanation of what goes on in the mind and gives tips for how to “create a better brain.”
I thought it was wonderful and as I have practiced some of these things with my own children I see the truth in it.
The main thing Debi could have done better with was the fact that she states her own opinions as fact very frequently throughout the book. I understand that with science it has to be applied in order to help people, and because she doesn’t have many credentials she is basically just sharing her opinion with facts sprinkled in. I do think she took it too far in some areas. We are not in control of everything and that is a fact. However, it was brain food for me and I’m very glad I read this book.
I think every mom should take the time to read this and think about it.
January 13, 2023
While I differ in opinion to some of Debi Pearl’s ideas in parenting and other social matters I very much appreciated the practical tips and techniques to help the reader apply the neurological concepts presented in this book. This book is accessible to parents (namely mothers) who are not well versed in brain science. I read this book about 5 years ago and I have been applying some of its principles ever since. I have seen the fruit in my children’s lives and my own. It is worth your time. The Pearls really grasp that science is something to marvel at and appreciate because it is one of many fingerprints of a brilliant God and Savior.
August 13, 2025
This book really helped me change from a mindset of negativity and replaying my past mistakes into leaning into Christ and remembering that God made our brains to be able to become more resilient.
A key takeaway is the fact that when we think negatively, we actually become dumber. Looping back negative moments damages the prefrontal cortex. The constant replaying of bad moments releases cortisol, which washes over our sensitive synapses and dissolves the connections of being able to feel memories.
A key takeaway is the fact that when we think negatively, we actually become dumber. Looping back negative moments damages the prefrontal cortex. The constant replaying of bad moments releases cortisol, which washes over our sensitive synapses and dissolves the connections of being able to feel memories.
August 11, 2023
Very helpful insight for how the brain works! A lot of fascinating information to help with parenting kids and teens. (Felt like a few things were taken to the extreme though)
Learned a lot about how gut health and outdoor play take up a large roll in our brain functions.
I would recommend this book to people, like me, who have not done in depth research about brain development and healing already.
Loved all the Bible verses throughout.
Learned a lot about how gut health and outdoor play take up a large roll in our brain functions.
I would recommend this book to people, like me, who have not done in depth research about brain development and healing already.
Loved all the Bible verses throughout.
July 9, 2020
Amazing information, I won’t give it five because I don’t agree with everything she says, for example that teens should daily acknowledge that they are really stupid and need to listen to everything their parents say. Yes, hi our and obey them, but I don’t care for cultivating a self depreciating idea. This book is great for moving forward and understanding how you can control your mind. 👌🏽
November 14, 2024
Simple breakdown of neuro plasticity. Easy to read. Includes great ideas for parents to intentionally care for their children’s brains. Includes a good chapter on autism. Also includes lots of true stories of brains healing from traumatic circumstances. I appreciated the Christian perspective; science has caught up with what the Bible has always taught on neuro plasticity.
October 29, 2025
The author has only second hand experience and knowledge about autism in particular. Also, she writes about current research that is being done and then later refers to it as proven science. I recommend going to the book she references for more solid information on neuroplasticity: The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Dodge, M.D.
February 12, 2021
Finally finished! Lots of practical things a mom can use in raising young children. I love that Debi includes other authors who are so knowledgeable in this area and I’m excited to read some of the books she’s mentioned!
January 26, 2022
This book was given to me by a friend. It was interesting but not necessarily as practical as I thought it might be. Definitely makes you think about how music, movement, play, touch, etc really fire up those brain neurons in your kids!
March 16, 2025
Sprinkling in a couple scientific facts here and there certainly doesn’t make swallowing the rest of this book’s misleading and harmful misinformation any more tolerable. If you like brain worms you might like this book.
September 8, 2020
A great, Christ centered synthesis of the ways that modern science prove the timeless principles of Biblical instruction. Practical wisdom and challenges too.
July 4, 2021
I found the research and quotes on neuroplasticity to be solid and informative , however, the author’s theology and personal slant are not something I all-together agree with.
December 1, 2021
Great introduction to brain plasticity. Geared towards mothers and child rearing. And encouraging and inspiring read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews