Just as the body changes dramatically between ages 9 and 20, the brain changes dramatically too. It becomes more efficient as frequently used connections strengthen and unused connections are pruned away. Development for adulthood starts at the back of the brain and moves to the front.

Childhood to Early Adulthood

At 9 years old… The circuitry that will support the operations of an adult brain is being fine-tuned. Nine-year-olds are fortifying their ability to learn – they no longer are learning to read, but are reading to learn.

From 10 – 15 years old… Brain development boosts several abilities - planning, retaining information, solving complex tasks and using self-control.

From 16 – 20 years old… The brain’s ability to send and receive signals speeds up, which increases its capacity for more complex reasoning and processing.