A Fan Fiction Podcast for El Groupies

Inside The Guide

Plain-English brain overview (so you can explain the “why” to students and families)
Behavior → Brain map to decode attention, memory, planning, and emotion in real time
Classroom strategy checklists for structure, engagement, executive functions, and positive reinforcement
IEP application section with student voice prompts, accommodation ideas, and quick family scripts
Further learning resources you can trust for deeper dives and PD.

Why This Works

Adolescents aren’t “noncompliant”—they’re developing. When you match instruction to the brain’s stage of growth, students focus longer, regulate faster, and take more academic risks—without adding more meetings or elaborate systems.

Who It’s For

Classroom teachers who need practical, use-it-tomorrow strategies
SPED/case managers aligning supports with real brain-based needs
APs and instructional coaches building consistent practices across teams

About Michelle

I help schools translate brain science into calm classrooms and better learning. My work is practical, respectful of teacher time, and focused on outcomes students can feel. This guide gives you the essential “why” and the classroom-ready “how” in one place.

teacher’s Guide: Understanding Adolescent Brain Development and Its Impact on Learning

Teach With The Teen Brain In Mind

When you understand how the teen brain is wired, behavior makes more sense and instruction gets easier. This guide translates neuroscience into simple moves you can use tomorrow to increase focus, reduce escalations, and help students take ownership of learning.

What You’ll Learn (Fast)

What’s changing in the adolescent brain—prefrontal cortex, limbic system, dopamine and more—so you can predict where students will struggle and why.
How brain development shows up in class—attention, memory, planning, emotional regulation, and risk-taking.
What actually works—structured routines, brain breaks, hands-on learning, executive-function supports, and strengths-based feedback.
How to apply it to IEPs—student self-advocacy prompts, accommodations that fit the brain, and partnership with families.