Parents increasingly express concerns about their children’s ability to focus and succeed academically. Acknowledging these worries, renowned neurologist Dr. Majid Fotuhi, MD, Ph.D., highlighted the impact of modern environments on brain development in an interview with Newsweek. Dr. Fotuhi, an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University and author of the upcoming book The Invincible Brain (scheduled for release in March 2026), emphasized that children today face unique challenges that affect their concentration and emotional regulation.
Dr. Fotuhi noted that children’s brains are currently under greater strain than in any previous generation. The rise of the attention economy, characterized by fast-paced videos, constant notifications, and algorithm-driven content, trains the brain to seek immediate gratification. As a result, maintaining sustained attention in educational settings has become increasingly difficult for many students. Additionally, children today experience less sleep, reduced physical activity, and heightened academic pressure.
From a neurological perspective, these factors significantly impact the brain networks responsible for attention, emotional balance, and executive function, which continue to develop throughout childhood and adolescence. “These networks are highly sensitive to lifestyle inputs,” Dr. Fotuhi explained. He further elaborated that constant overstimulation, lack of rest, and chronic stress can lead to inefficiencies in these networks. As he stated, “The brain’s capacity is dynamic. It can weaken under strain, but it can also strengthen with the right inputs.”
Dr. Fotuhi identified several lifestyle factors that contribute to these challenges. Inconsistent sleep patterns can result in a foggy, impulsive brain. Diets rich in ultra-processed foods may hinder blood circulation and increase inflammation, while chronic stress can shrink memory centers, complicating the learning process. Furthermore, reduced physical activity deprives the brain of essential growth factors that contribute to attention and emotional stability.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Fotuhi offered a hopeful perspective, asserting that the negative effects are reversible. Based on his extensive research and clinical experience, he outlined five practical steps parents can implement to strengthen their child’s brain over a period of eight to twelve weeks.
Five Steps to Enhance Cognitive Function
Dr. Fotuhi emphasized that consistency and structure are fundamental. Small, daily changes can reshape brain networks more effectively than many realize. The first step is to stabilize sleep. Parents should establish consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, even on weekends, and ensure that screens are removed at least one hour before bedtime.
The second step involves nutrition. Dr. Fotuhi advised parents to encourage meals that are rich in protein, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains, while minimizing ultra-processed snacks and sugary drinks. “Think of food as brain fuel, not just calories,” he suggested.
For the third step, regular physical activity is essential. Parents should aim for their children to engage in 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, whether through sports, walking, biking, or active play.
The fourth recommendation is to create structured environments at home. Implementing visual schedules, clear routines, and defined work-and-break periods can help lower stress levels and free up cognitive resources for learning.
Lastly, Dr. Fotuhi encouraged parents to intentionally train their child’s brain. Activities such as working-memory games, attention exercises, mindfulness practices, and coaching in organization or time management can directly enhance cognitive networks.
“When these steps are combined and personalized,” Dr. Fotuhi concluded, “parents often observe meaningful improvements within eight to twelve weeks—not just in academic performance but also in confidence, emotional stability, and overall family dynamics.”
By following these recommendations, parents can play a critical role in fostering healthier brain development, ensuring their children thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
