The discovery that the brain is far more malleable that previously thought has revolutionised our understanding of brain function and learning. The theory of this so-called brain plasticity will be the theme of a talk by Norman Doidge, author of The Brain That Changes Itself (Penguin) on Thursday at 6pm in the Institute of NeuroScience, Trinity College Dublin. Admission is free. See neuronlearning.eu and normandoidge.com.
Dance to humanity
Workshops in tango, salsa and flamenco dances will run alongside introductory classes in Tai Chi, Chi Kung and Capoeira as part of the Being Human event in Cultivate on Saturday.
One-hour workshops from 10am-5pm, will be followed by a DJ-led dance evening until 10pm. Full day passes cost €30. See cultivate.ie or tel: 01-6745773.
Dyspraxia meeting
Child psychiatrist Dr Vincent Maloney is the keynote speaker at the Dyspraxia Association of Ireland’s annual conference on Saturday, March 28th at the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin.
There will also be workshops on occupational therapy, counselling and educational needs for children and teenagers who experience coordination difficulties. Tel: 01-404 5530 or dyspraxiaireland.com.
Find out about you
Process Work is a psychological approach which aims to include all levels of expression and meaning to better understand our lived experiences. An introduction to Process Work through unfolding dreams, body symptoms and relationship struggles goes ahead in Westport, Co Mayo, on March 28th and 29th, €195. Tel: 087-2566374 or email marymanning.biz@gmail.com.
Child protection
Are staff and volunteers suited to working with children? Is there a written code of behaviour? Does the organisation have insurance? These and other child protection issues are covered in a brochure by the Galway City and County Childcare Committee, entitled Keeping Children Safe.
A similar publication has been issued by the Mayo Local Child Protection Committee. It also fills an information gap highlighted in research by NUI Galway and the HSE which showed that many postgraduates who may become involved in child protection had “little knowledge” of the correct procedures. Copies from tel 091-752039 and mail@galwaychildcare.com
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