Nature and Nurture | Influencing Genes for Success

Is it nature, or is it nurture?

That is the question.

This age-old debate in the world of psychology has been a source of controversy for decades. At some point, all parents have considered which one has most influenced their child concerning personality traits, abilities, etc. And while different fields of psychology have distinct beliefs, studies have shown that this debate falls along more of a continuum, with both views holding some truth. With this knowledge, we can engage children through programs that nurture the expression of traits which will lead to success and happiness.

In the nature versus nurture debate, nativists believe that all of our physical and personality traits are pre-wired and cannot be influenced. On the flip side, empiricists believe that environmental factors such as childhood experiences, parenting styles, etc., influence how we develop. Today, most psychology and child development experts consider both sides and look at how nature and nurture work together to influence how an individual develops. This approach evolved from a field of study called epigenetics.

Epigenetics is the study of how external factors can change the way genes are expressed.

While we are all born with genes we inherit from our parents, early childhood experiences, relationships, culture, and more can influence how much of a specific gene is developed. These environmental conditions make a collection of chemical marks on the gene, known as an epigenome, which alters the expression of the gene. This is why identical twins can show different personalities, skills, and behaviors. Since young brains rapidly develop, they are more sensitive to these changes. Therefore negative early childhood experiences can lead to adverse changes in the brain and cause the emergence of more harmful personality traits.

To give children the best shot at positive gene expression, we must provide supportive and nurturing experiences. And while this is most beneficial early on, neuroplasticity can support new neural connections later in life as well, to compensate for less than ideal circumstances early in life. Adapting positive parenting styles and reinforcement practices, along with secure attachments, will provide children with a strong foundation for development.

SKILLZ Child Development Centers provide a nurturing environment that applies the latest findings in child development and psychology to help children become strong, healthy, and resilient. This cutting-edge approach to child development through martial arts training incorporates the activities that boost the release of positive chemicals in the brain, providing a healthy D.O.S.E. of constructive neural connections. The game-based learning format utilizes Brain SKILLZ and creates the most effective means for new learning to take place. In addition, the Certified Pediatric Ninja Specialists employ strategies that motivate students to do their best and help them feel successful. The Parent SKILLZ program provides added support to families as well.

When we understand how a child’s environment plays a role in expressing specific genes, we can create more ideal experiences. Positive parenting practices and child development programs that engage students and support their physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development will increase the positive chemical markers on each gene, thereby furthering their expression. This whole-child approach will foster happier and more successful children.


Learn more about our kids karate programs & how to schedule your first lesson below!

Nature and Nurture | Influencing Genes for Success

SHARE THIS POST

About our programs

Early SKILLZ
Preschool - Kindergarten

3–4 year-olds are naturally curious. They might not be ready for the rigid structure of a traditional martial arts class ... but they do need to start learning about appropriate social behavior!

- DISCOVER -

Basic SKILLZ
1st Grade - 3rd Grade

It's often easy for teachers and parents to overestimate 5-6 year old children. They're better at following directions and paying attention than younger children, but they still need some help controlling themselves and focusing on tasks.
- DISCOVER -

Core SKILLZ
3rd Grade - 5th Grade

Children are like sponges. They absorb things quickly and easily - far more easily than we do as adults. Not only are they getting healthier as they learn martial arts, but they're also learning the value of self-discipline and respect.
- DISCOVER -

Junior Karate SKILLZ
Middle School Program

Karate may normally make you think of self-defense, fitness, and discipline ... the truth is, it's all of that and WAY more!
Our program helps our students build skills that they can APPLY to every area of their life and empower them to be the very best they can possibly be!



- DISCOVER -

Teens Karate
High School Program

Instead of giving into the moodiness and attitude, take them to our dojo instead! Teenagers are smart and capable - but they can also be their own worst enemies. Between peer pressure, their innate urge to rebel against their parents, and their surging hormones, they can be impossible to be around. But all they need is an outlet for their frustrations - and an opportunity to be their best.- DISCOVER -

Adult Karate
Ages 17+

Martial arts training is fun, empowering, and provides a great workout for adults. Studying martial arts is something that anybody - at any age or fitness level - can do. Our programs make learning fun, empowering, and provides a great workout for busy parents!



- DISCOVER -