Mirror Neurons are developed by sensorimotor learning and play an important role in imitation
What are mirror neurons?
Basically they are neurons in areas throughout the brain that fire when we watch movement and when we attempt to perform the same movement (sensorimotor)
These mirror neuron areas are developed by sensorimotor learning
For example, using fMRI, Wiggett et al. (2012) found mirror neuron brain areas were activated by participants who observed and executed hand movement sequences than in participants who only did one or the other
This has specific implications for imitation
Imitation is the matching of how body parts move in relation to one another
Mirror neurons do not necessarily help us understand movement, but they do help us imitate movement which is developed through sensorimotor learning
This can be specifically beneficial to helping kids learn new movement patterns
For example, when a parent plays catch with their kids, the kids will observe the movement & then attempt imitate that throwing pattern
This idea can be used for development of all motor skills
Kids are going to grow up watching movements of their parents or favorite athletes & trying to imitate them
Eg. Kobe trained to imitate MJ’s moves
It is important to give kids the ideal resources in an attempt to help them develop new & correct coordinated movement patterns
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