DiscoverIt's Only Kids FootballNeuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development
Neuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development

Neuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development

Update: 2025-06-30
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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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Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com


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Neuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development

Neuroscientist explains how playing football impacts a child's brain development