When children live in a persistent state of fear, the areas of their brains controlling the fear response can become overdeveloped. These parts of the brain may direct behavior even in situations in which it would be more appropriate for other parts of the brain to be in charge. It is important to note that the areas of the brain active in fearful states are different from those active in calm states, and it is predominantly the areas active in calm states that are required for academic learning…. Just as traumatic experiences can undermine the brain's development, good experiences can enhance
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