How to strengthen your kids' brains in 12 weeks, a neurologist says

Neurologist Dr. Majid Fotuhi told Newsweek that modern environments are straining children's developing brain networks, and he recommends five lifestyle-focused steps that he says can lead to meaningful improvements within eight to 12 weeks.

Children's brains are being shaped by modern environments and face added strain, Dr. Majid Fotuhi told Newsweek. He said attention networks, emotional regulation, and executive function remain under development through childhood and adolescence. Factors such as fast-paced media, less sleep, reduced physical activity, and academic pressure are contributing to that strain. Fotuhi reported these effects are reversible and that consistent lifestyle changes can strengthen brain networks in weeks. Key points: - Expert view: Dr. Majid Fotuhi described children's brains as sensitive to environmental inputs and noted that overstimulation and stress can make cognitive networks less efficient. - Developmental note: Networks for attention, emotion, and executive function continue to mature during childhood and adolescence. - Lifestyle factors: The article identifies inconsistent sleep, diets high in ultra-processed foods, chronic stress, and insufficient physical activity as contributors to weakened cognitive function. - Recommended steps: Based on his research and clinical work, Fotuhi recommends stabilizing sleep, improving nutrition, daily physical activity, home structure and routines, and intentional brain-training practices; he says combined changes can show results in eight to 12 weeks. Summary: Fotuhi frames the current pattern as a result of environmental and lifestyle factors and reports that these effects are not permanent. He asserts that applying the five lifestyle-focused approaches consistently can lead to noticeable improvements in attention, emotional balance, and related skills over an eight- to 12-week period.