Is Shichida Right Brain Education or Whole Brain Education?

You can see some Shichida schools say they are a "whole brain education" and some says "right brain education"

In his books, the late Makoto Shichida, the founder of the original Shichida Method, actually called his method "Right Brain Education" to differentiate his method from the traditional early learning methodologies.

1. Right Brain Education:

During the first three years of a child's life, specifically from birth to three years old, they are predominantly right brain dominant. This period is crucial as it is when the brain is most receptive to absorbing information and experiences.

The Original Shichida Method capitalizes on this by focusing on activities that stimulate the right hemisphere, which is associated with creativity, intuition, and holistic thinking.

This is a period you do not emphasise on the left brain exercises, because the left brain begins to develop from the age of 3+ onwards.

Key components of right brain education include the use of flashcards, which are designed to enhance memory retention and visual learning. Techniques such as Mandala Memory, Linking Memory, and Photo Image exercises are employed to improve cognitive skills and memory. Speed Reading is also introduced at this stage, encouraging children to process information quickly and efficiently.

In addition to these memory exercises, the Shichida Method incorporates engaging nursery rhymes and songs that not only entertain but also serve as educational tools.

These musical elements help with language acquisition and auditory processing, making learning enjoyable and effective. Furthermore, basic drawing, scribbling, writing, and coloring are integral parts of the curriculum, fostering fine motor skills and artistic expression.

Through these activities, children develop a strong foundation for creative thinking and self-expression, which are essential for their overall development.

Starting your baby with Right Brain Education as early as possible is beneficial. Activating the right brain abilities becomes more challenging as the child grows older.

Right Brain Education is quite comprehensive; it involves engaging more than just the five senses.

Activating the right brain also includes stimulating the child's sixth sense, which encompasses photographic memory, intuition, and speed reading. This is accomplished through consistent right brain training at home.

2. Whole Brain Education:

As children reach the age of three and continue through their early years (ages 3 to 7), the Shichida Method transitions into what is known as Whole Brain Education.

This phase acknowledges the growing importance of the left hemisphere of the brain, which is responsible for logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and structured learning.

While right brain exercises remain a vital part of the curriculum, left brain activities are introduced to create a balanced educational experience.

So, what exactly do these left brain exercises entail? They often include activities inspired by the Montessori method, which is a well-established educational philosophy focused on child-led learning and hands-on experiences.

Montessori activities encourage independence, problem-solving, and critical thinking, which are essential skills for academic success.

By integrating the structured approach of Montessori with the creative and intuitive aspects of right brain education, the Shichida Method offers a comprehensive learning experience that nurtures the whole child.

This holistic approach not only promotes cognitive development but also supports emotional and social growth.

Children learn to collaborate, communicate, and express their ideas effectively, preparing them for future educational challenges and life experiences.

The Shichida Method's emphasis on both hemispheres of the brain ensures that children are well-rounded individuals, equipped with a diverse set of skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

The Importance of Shichida Right Brain Education (for 0, 1, 2 and 3 years old)

The first three years of a child's life are universally recognized as the most crucial period for development, laying the groundwork for cognitive, emotional, and social growth.

During this formative phase, the brain undergoes rapid changes and is highly receptive to learning. The Shichida Method places a very strong emphasis on right brain training, which is designed to harness the unique capabilities of the right hemisphere of the brain.

This approach encourages children to utilize their right brain faculties to enhance their ability to memorize facts, absorb information, and develop a broad base of general knowledge that can serve them throughout their lives.

As the well-known Glenn Doman, a pioneer in early childhood education, profoundly stated,

"With knowledge comes intelligence."

This statement emphasizes the essence of the educational philosophy underpinning the Shichida Method. Knowledge serves as the foundation upon which intelligence is built; without a solid base of information, it becomes challenging for children to develop critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities.

The experiences, practices, and lessons that a child engages in during these early years contribute significantly to their cognitive development and overall intellectual growth. Knowledge not only enhances a child's understanding of the world but also fosters curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

One of the primary tools employed in the Shichida Method is the use of flashcards, which have also been championed by Glenn Doman.

Flashcards serve as an effective early learning instrument, enabling children to learn images, words, and sounds in a dynamic and engaging manner. The visual and auditory stimulation provided by flashcards is particularly beneficial, as it activates both the auditory and visual senses of the child. This multisensory approach not only captures the child's attention but also reinforces memory retention and recall, essential components of effective learning.

The Right Brain Education Method of Showing Flash Cards

The right and left hemispheres of the brain function in distinctly different ways, with research indicating that the right brain is primarily associated with creativity, intuition, and holistic thinking, while the left brain is more focused on logic, reasoning, and analytical processes.

Understanding these differences is crucial for effectively implementing the Shichida Method, which aims to maximize the potential of the right brain through innovative teaching techniques.

The secret to successfully teaching the Right Brain Education Method using flashcards lies in the speed at which the cards are presented.

The Shichida approach advocates for displaying flashcards at a pace that is rapid enough to engage the child's interest and stimulate their cognitive faculties. In practice, flashcards are shown faster than 0.5 seconds per card, a technique that challenges the child to absorb the information quickly and intuitively.

This rapid-fire presentation not only enhances the child's ability to process information swiftly but also encourages a playful and enjoyable learning environment, making education an exciting adventure rather than a chore.

In conclusion, the Shichida Right Brain Education Method is a powerful approach to early childhood education that emphasizes the importance of knowledge acquisition and the development of intelligence through innovative techniques like flashcard learning.

By focusing on the unique capabilities of the right brain, this method fosters creativity and enhances cognitive development in young children, setting them on a path toward lifelong learning and intellectual success.

If you are looking to start you child's Right Brain Education journey, discover more by visiting Right Brain Brain Education Library.