Event shines light on learning difficulties and anxiety

Release_SCE held a fun and informative pizza afternoon at Il Gusto on September 20, where issues regarding learning difficulties and anxiety among school learners were addressed.

Teachers and stakeholders like therapists from the East Rand were invited to join the event, where Dr Johan Meyer, managing director of School of Transformation which caters for children with barriers to learning such as dyslexia and ADD/ADHD, spoke to the attendees.

In his speech, Meyer emphasised the importance of self-regulation in children, particularly in coping with stress and emotional challenges. He noted that many children struggle with self-control due to societal changes that foster entitlement and a child-led environment.

Meyer highlighted practical strategies to help children regulate their emotions, including the significance of slow breathing techniques, which can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system and calm anxiety.

He also discussed the role of nutrition in supporting emotional and cognitive health, recommending Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium for their benefits in improving focus and mood.

Meyer shared findings from a study involving a supplement programme that resulted in significant improvements in children’s auditory and visual attention, as well as a decrease in anxiety levels.

After Meyer’s talk, attendees enjoyed a pizza. Attendees were able to choose between three to five different toppings.

On the form where the stakeholders could choose their pizza, there was more information about the nutritional value of each topping.

Release_SCE marketing and sales co-ordinator, Jannes Ellis, described the event as a success.

“We are pleased to see that the stakeholders took time and effort to attend the event even though it was the last day before the school holiday starts. It shows that there is a need for information,” he said.