Michelle Lopez’s Reviews > Helping Children Succeed: What Works and Why > Status Update

“Teachers convey to their students deep messages - often implicitly or even subliminally - about belonging, connection, ability, and opportunity. Those messages may not have the same measurable neurochemical effects on a ten-year-old brain as they do on a ten-month-old brain, but they do have a profound impact on students’ psychology and thus their behavior.”

“Just as early stress sends signals to the developing nervous system to maintain constant vigilance and prepare for a lifetime of trouble, early warmth and responsiveness send the opposite message: You’re safe. Life is going to be fine. Let down your guard; the people around you will protect and provide for you. Be curious about the world; it’s full of fascinating surprises.”