Making a Difference at Local Schools Through Brain Education

Over the past year, I’ve had the honour of visiting five local schools to teach students about how their brains work through engaging author visits, science activities, and interactive lessons. Using my children’s book Brian the Brain: Mindset Go!, I help students build curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning—while having a lot of fun along the way.

How to Learn at St Mark’s Catholic School

I kicked things off last January at St Mark’s Catholic School, bringing Brian the Brain: Mindset Go! to life during a high-energy author visit. I set up in the library and connected with the librarian, who was excited to add my books to the school collection.

Students visited in grade-based groups, and each session included an interactive book reading, engaging discussions, and a hands-on science experiment. The energy and enthusiasm from the students made this visit a fantastic start to the year.

Getting Brainy at St Lawrence Academy

At St Lawrence Academy, I delivered two different brain-focused lessons tailored to student age groups.

For Grades 3–4, I taught an Introduction to the Brain using worksheets and hands-on activities. I was blown away by how quickly students learned and remembered complex brain anatomy terms.

For Grades 5–8, we explored neuroanatomy in more depth. I’ll admit—I wondered how the older students would react to a picture book. The moment my book appeared on the screen, though, I heard: “Cool, a graphic novel!” These sessions allowed for deeper discussion and critical thinking, which made them especially rewarding.

Mind, Body, and Soul Event at Meadowview Public School

I was honoured to be invited by the parent council at Meadowview Public School to participate in their Mind, Body, and Soul event. This event focused on student mental health and wellbeing through hands-on workshops.

During my session, students conducted science experiments, explored sensory learning by “feeling a brain,” and enjoyed reading together. It was a fantastic example of real-world learning tied to emotional and cognitive development.

Revisiting Memories at St Francis Xavier Catholic School

This past fall, I returned to my own elementary school—St Francis Xavier Catholic School—for an author visit. Walking the halls brought back many memories (including accidentally trying to enter through the old student door!).

I set up in the gym and taught students about the brain in multiple group sessions. Nearly the entire school attended, making it one of the most memorable visits of the year.

Real-World Learning at Swift Waters Elementary School

At Swift Waters Elementary School, I participated in their Real World Learning program. I led a writing workshop for Grades 1–2, where students learned the basics of storytelling.

I also provided virtual lessons to guide students through the writing process, allowing them to complete and publish their own class book compilation—an experience that combined creativity, literacy, and confidence-building.

Bringing Brain Education to Schools Everywhere

I am incredibly grateful to the local schools that welcomed me over the past year. I truly believe I learn just as much from the students as they do from me.

My goal is to have a set of “Brian the Brain” books in every school library across the country, and each school visit brings me one step closer.

Interested in booking an author visit for your school?

I offer in-person and virtual author visits, each customized to your students’ needs.

Feel free to reach out—I’d love to connect!