Neuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development
Understanding the young footballer's brain
It's Only Kids Football · Ben Welch and Mike Clark
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Show Notes
This week, Ben and Mike are joined by renowned neuroscientist and best-selling author, Dr Dean Burnett, to explore what’s really going on inside young players’ minds and why even the calmest parents can turn into full-blown lunatics on the touchline.
From daydreaming and memory lapses to executive function and emotional regulation, Dean unpacks the science behind how children develop and why grassroots football is a uniquely chaotic learning environment for players and parents alike.
They also dig into the long-term impact of sideline behaviour, the real risks of head injuries and how sport shapes social and cognitive growth.
Where to find Dean: https://www.deanburnett.com/
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