David Walsh, Ph.D.

Dr. Walsh's presentations are a rare blend of substance and inspiration. Educators and parents who attend his workshops or speeches leave with exciting new information based on cutting edge research. They also leave with a renewed sense of energy and dedication for their crucial work with children and youth.

Dr. Walsh's most popular presentations for educators include:

MediaWise

Dr. Walsh has riveted audiences throughout the world with his pioneering work on the impact of media on children and youth. He combines the latest discoveries in brain science with up-to-date data to show how and why mass media are as powerful as they are in shaping attitudes, values, and behavior. Particular attention will be paid to the impact of media violence, the "culture of disrespect," the media-obesity connection and the effects of media on literacy and school performance. He also examines video game addiction, the impact of advertising, and the future of media. His presentations have motivated communities everywhere to act on behalf of children and youth

Why Do They Act That Way: A Conversation with the Author

Adolescence has been described as a "normally abnormal stage of life." This workshop, based on Dr. David Walsh's best selling book, explains exactly what happens to the adolescent brain on the path from childhood into adulthood. Revealing the latest scientific findings in easy-to-understand terms, Dr. Walsh shows why moodiness, quickness to anger, willingness to take risks, miscommunication and other familiar teenage behavior are so common-all are linked to physical changes and growth in the adolescent brain. This workshop goes beyond the well-known issues of hormones and peer pressure. Dr. Walsh also shows parents and anyone who works with youth how to use this information to understand, communicate with, and stay connected to their kids.

Culture of Confusion: Helping Teens Navigate Adolescence

Whoever tells the story defines the culture. Through the power of TV, radio, and video games, this generation is exposed to more stories, for longer periods of time, and more powerfully presented than any in history. They're constantly being bombarded with media messages telling them how to act, look and feel in ways that might not be in their best interests. At a time when teenagers are trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do with their lives these powerful messages can create a very confusing environment for both parents and teenagers. Dr. David Walsh uses the latest scientific findings on adolescent brain development to help parents and concerned adults understand the powerful role of media in their teens' lives in shaping their attitudes and behaviors around the issues of sex, drugs, disrespect and violence. Dr. Walsh also gives parents practical tools on how to communicate with their teen and help them grow into informed and responsible adults.

Creating a Positive School Climate

Classroom and school climate is a key element in the learning environment. When the climate is good, students feel secure and can learn. When the climate is not good, however, anxiety rises, disorder breaks out and learning goes down. This workshop takes the mystery out of climate. Dr. Walsh describes how it develops and what educators can do to manage it. He addresses topics including "tipping points," the power of little things, discipline, connectors, and the eight steps to creating positive school climate.

Education in the Internet Age

This generation of students is growing up in the midst of one of the greatest revolutions of all time. Video games, the Internet, TV, e-mail, chat rooms--they have all become integrated into children's lives. In this workshop Dr. Walsh will explore the impact of the digital revolution on children and schools. He will peer into the cyberfuture to catch a glimpse of the world this generation will be living in and how we can best prepare them for that future.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a critical trait for success in relationships and career. Dr. Walsh explains what emotional intelligence is and how to help children develop it. He combines his experience as a teacher, coach, parent, and child psychologist with the latest insights from brain science to map out a practical plan for raising children who are socially adept, and emotionally mature.

Boy Brains and Girl Brains: What Does Science Tells Us?

Are boys naturally better at math? Do girls' brains give them an edge in verbal skills and reading? Brain science is helping us figure out the inherent differences between boys and girls. Dr. Dave Walsh not only separates the facts from the myths, but he also translates the latest research into strategies that parents and teachers can use to enhance learning and development for all children.

Enthusiastic responses!

"David combined the humor of Bill Cosby with the teaching wisdom of Socrates to keep our teaching staff spellbound for five hours. He was a marvelous inspiration to all of us. Rarely has a particular individual been able to incite a feeling of warmth and understanding and so generously offered a personal experience and knowledge as guidance to our staff. The 1200 staff members working in the public schools in Somerville, Massachusetts consider it a great opportunity to have worked with Dr. David Walsh."
- Dr. Albert F. Argenziano
Superintendent, Somerville, MA

"In my thirty-seven years of attending workshops, this is the best I have ever been to."

"Absolutely wonderful. Maybe the best workshop that I've ever attended."

"Fantastic!"

"Powerful presentation! Could have listened to Dr. Dave all day."

"Absolutely outstanding! Only wish we had more time."

"WOW! This was incredible. I could have listened to him for a whole day. Bring him back. EXCELLENT!"

"We want more of what Dr. Walsh can offer - GREAT!"