Building Blocks of Brain Development

The graphic represents the Building Blocks of Brain Development. Our brains develop each and every “building block” or brain function in a progressive manner. They build upon each other to become more complex (i.e., higher order thinking). The building blocks included here represent typical areas of processing/learning and those that are commonly affected by brain injury.

• There may be other areas affected by brain injury, as this is not an exhaustive list.
• The graphic depicts the building blocks at the fundamental, intermediate, and higher order levels.
• Each level is color-coded – the fundamental or foundational building blocks are at the base (orange level). These fundamental building blocks are very sensitive to brain injury and are essential for all learning and behavior.
• The intermediate level (green) building blocks denotes all learning and language and visual-spatial processing.
• The higher order thinking skills – executive function and social emotional competency are represented at the blue level.
• Overall functioning and achievement (purple level) requires the fundamental, intermediate and higher order building blocks to be solidly in place and work in concert with one another. A brain injury may cause gaps in the functioning of these areas which can impact learning and/or behavior.

The Building Blocks of Brain Development framework is provided as a general guideline for educators and professionals. It was developed as a beginning “reference point” for professionals working with students where a brain injury is suspected or known to be present. The framework offers a wide range of suggested assessment tools and intervention strategies for students with brain injury (as well as other conditions impacting neurocognitive functioning). It is essential to use the tools appropriately and in accordance with guidelines and follow all licensing and training parameters when using this resource.

While this online framework provides the neuroeducational evaluation tools, there is also a manual available electronically, that defines and fully illustrates each building block, called the Brain Injury in Children and Youth: A Manual for Educators. The manual provides a detailed explanation of how each building block may be effected in the school setting if a brain injury occurs. In addition, an extensive list of accommodations, strategies, and interventions for each building block are provided in the manual.

A very helpful tool for data collection in each of the Building Block areas is the Neurocognitive Evaluation Form.  

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