Early Brainworks: The Development and Function of Compassionate Brains

Monday, April 14. 2:00pm-3:30pm. Lopez Room.

Description 

Discover how emotional connections are established through experiences in early childhood which form the foundation for all future relationships, friendships, cooperation, empathy, and compassion. Understand the science behind learning, language and emotions that underlie empathy and compassion. And study the interactions that parents and professionals can engage in to help infants and children acquire critically important social skills. 

Presenter Bios 

Frank Vincenzi, PhD, University of Washington

Frank F. Vincenzi is a professor of pharmacology in the School of Medicine of the University of Washington where he has engaged in research and teaching for over 40 years. His training as an undergraduate was in pharmacy and as a graduate student in pharmacology, both at the University of Washington. He is the author or co-author of over 100 publications in the areas of basic pharmacology and cell physiology. Recently, Professor Vincenzi’s teaching has expanded into so-called mind-body medicine. He is the co-chairman of an elective course in mind-body medicine for medical, nursing, and pharmacy students. The course provides future health care providers with stress management and other skills and techniques that have been associated with increased empathy. Professor Vincenzi’s research interests are currently aimed at exploring the significance of mirror neurons systems in the human brain. The phenomenon of ‘mirroring’ by the brain is implicated in social and emotional learning and communication, among many other phenomena. Mirroring is also fundamental to the development of language in the broadest sense, as well as in speech perception. Thus, the development of mirror neuron systems in early childhood development is critical to socialization and, in particular, empathy and compassion. Practical application of the insights of mirroring into early childhood nurturance and education, as well as in society in general, offers great promise for a more compassionate world. 

Susan Fox, OTR, Pediatric Therapy Clinic

Susan Fox is a pediatric therapist and director of Pediatric Therapy Clinic. She is a clinician with 25 years of experience who works with infants and children with developmental challenges including spectrum disorders, sensory-motor and learning challenges. She helps children build friendships, function in groups and is a parent/child advocate working with educators and schools during the IEP process. She is the author of three parenting books and lectures through out the USA.