How Does Your Brain Learn New Things?

What You'll Learn

• Your brain has billions of neurons — tiny cells that carry messages
• Neurons connect at junctions called synapses — like bridges between islands
• When you practice, the connections get stronger — like a path getting wider
• Your brain can change and grow new connections — this is called neuroplasticity
• Sleep helps your brain save what you learned

Words to Know

Neuron

A tiny cell in your brain that carries messages

"Your brain has billions of neurons."

Synapse

The tiny gap between two neurons where they pass messages

"Practice makes the synapse stronger."

Neuroplasticity

Your brain's ability to change and grow new connections

"Neuroplasticity means you can always learn new things."

Practice

Doing something again and again to get better

"With practice, riding a bike gets easy."

Check What You Learned

Fun Facts

• The human brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons

  Source: Society for Neuroscience

• Neurons communicate at junctions called synapses by releasing chemical messengers called neurotransmitters

  Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

• The human brain has an estimated 100 trillion synaptic connections

  Source: Society for Neuroscience

• Repeated practice strengthens synaptic connections through a process called long-term potentiation

  Source: National Institutes of Health

• Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life

  Source: American Psychological Association

• Sleep plays a critical role in consolidating learning and memory — the brain strengthens synaptic connections during sleep

  Source: National Sleep Foundation