Do screens help or hinder children's development?

In an age of omnipresent technology, one of the most pressing questions for parents, educators, and health professionals is: do screens help or hinder the development of children? The answer, although complex, must be built on scientific evidence, careful observation, and, above all, human sensitivity. This article aims to offer a balanced, inspiring, and motivational perspective on this topic, valuing not only data but also affection and creativity in the relationship between adults and children.

In recent decades, neuroscience has significantly advanced our understanding of how the child’s brain develops. We know, for instance, that the early years of life are marked by intense synaptic formation—connections between neurons that are strengthened through interaction with the surrounding world. This interaction must be rich in sensory, social, and motor stimuli—meaning it requires movement, touch, eye contact, listening, and affection. When a child spends hours in front of a screen, they miss out on exploring the real world with all their senses, which can compromise the full development of cognitive, emotional, and social functions.

Studies conducted by Harvard University and Stanford University have shown that excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s attention span, working memory, sleep, and even behavior. A 2019 study published in JAMA Pediatrics revealed that children aged 2 to 5 who spend more than one hour a day in front of screens are more likely to exhibit delays in language and social skills. This does not mean all screen time is harmful; rather, unmoderated and purposeless use can lead to significant impacts. The key lies in quality, intentionality, and duration of exposure.

To make this reflection more concrete, it is worth mentioning the experience of playwright and educator Antônio Carlos dos Santos, who created the play “Screens, only with health” (see by clicking here). In it, through playful, fun and accessible language, children and adults are invited to reflect on the conscious use of technologies. The play is an invitation to self-regulation, balance and intergenerational dialogue. Despite addressing issues that plague today, “Screens? Only with health!” draws on classical philosophy, Socrates and the Myth of the Cave to emphasize how education can ensure the sustainable use of contemporary technologies.

From the play emerged the method TBMB – Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater, a methodology applied in schools and cultural centers to address sensitive issues with children, such as screen time, bullying, and healthy eating. With handcrafted puppets and popular theatrical language, the methodology connects with children’s emotions, capturing attention and promoting lasting learning. Field studies conducted in partnership with the Federal University of Minas Gerais showed that children who participated in TBMB workshops developed greater critical awareness about screen time and showed increased interest in physical activity and reading.

Another educational approach inspired by the works of Antônio Carlos dos Santos is the MAT Method – Mindset, Action, and Theater. Through MAT, parents, educators, and children are invited to act out real-life situations based on true stories. Through dramatization, socio-emotional skills such as empathy, active listening, self-regulation, and conflict resolution are developed. In one MAT exercise, for example, a child plays the role of a video game that always wants to play, while another plays the child who needs to sleep, study, and talk to their parents. At the end of the scene, everyone reflects on the importance of setting boundaries and valuing time.

The ThM – Theater Movement method further reinforces the importance of the body as a learning tool. In a world that is increasingly sedentary—where children spend hours immobile in front of tablets and smartphones—ThM proposes a return to creative movement, body expression, and sensory awareness. In workshops with young children, movements inspired by screen characters are transformed into dances and physical games, helping integrate body and mind in a joyful and healthy way. Neuroscience has already shown that physical movement stimulates higher cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and logical reasoning.

It is crucial to remember that when we talk about screens, we are also talking about family bonds. A child who watches a cartoon with their parents, talks about the plot, and relates it to their life is making enriching use of technology. A child left alone for hours with a screen as a digital babysitter, however, is being deprived of essential interactions. Mediation is the key. According to the 2020 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the ideal for young children is less than one hour of screen time per day—always accompanied by an adult who guides, explains, and interacts.

So, yes—screens can support children’s development, as long as they are used wisely. There are educational apps, games that stimulate logical thinking, and videos that teach languages, science, or music. But all of this must be part of a broader pedagogical project that includes play, nature exploration, family and school interaction, silence, and quality sleep. No technology replaces eye contact, the touch of a hug, the scent of a new book, or the sound of laughter during a backyard game.

The mission of parents and educators is not to demonize screens but to teach children to use them consciously. It is to prepare them for the digital world without losing sight of what makes us human: empathy, movement, affection, and curiosity for the real. As Antônio Carlos dos Santos says, “The best technology is still love—and love requires time, presence, and listening.”

May we be inspired by creative pedagogical practices, reliable scientific studies, and methodologies that value childhood in all its richness. And may every adult who loves a child ask themselves: am I offering screens… or presence? Because, in the end, what truly shapes a child’s brain and heart is the quality of time spent with those who care for them. And that, no screen can replace.

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Building the future: how financial education ensures a secure retirement

             An inspiring journey on how knowledge, planning, and creativity can turn the dream of a peaceful retirement into reality

Imagine reaching retirement with serenity, knowing that your financial choices guarantee quality of life. This article explores how financial education, combined with innovative methodologies like theater, empowers workers and leaders to plan a sustainable and fulfilling future.

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Retirement is a horizon everyone aspires to, but few adequately prepare to reach. In a world of economic uncertainties and rapid changes, financial education emerges as an essential tool to transform dreams into reality. Recent studies, such as those published in the Journal of Financial Planning (2024), show that individuals with financial literacy are 40% more likely to maintain a comfortable retirement. Financial education is not just about numbers; it’s about empowering people to make informed decisions, plan strategically, and live with purpose. For workers, leaders, and the general public, mastering this skill is the first step toward a secure future.

Retirement planning requires more than saving money; it demands a clear vision of the future and consistent actions in the present. This is where innovative methodologies, such as those developed by writer and educator Antônio Carlos dos Santos, come into play. His Quasar K+ Strategic Planning approach combines science, creativity, and practice to create robust plans. Quasar K+ uses scenario analysis and goal-setting tools, inspiring individuals to visualize their long-term objectives. Additionally, Santos proposes theater as a laboratory for ideas, with methodologies like MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), ThM (Theater Movement), and MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), making financial learning engaging and transformative.

Scientific Tidbit: Research from the Journal of Behavioral Finance (2023) indicates that people who engage in creative activities, such as theater, make more thoughtful financial decisions, as they develop greater self-awareness and emotional control.

The Quasar K+ methodology is particularly effective for structuring a sustainable retirement plan. For example, imagine Ana, a 40-year-old teacher who wants to retire at 65 with quality of life. Using Quasar K+, Ana begins by identifying her goals: maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, traveling once a year, and supporting her grandchildren’s education. Next, she maps her income, expenses, and investments, adjusting them based on economic projections. The unique aspect of Quasar K+ is its creative visualization stage: Ana participates in a theatrical exercise, acting out her “future self” in a play guided by MAT. This experience helps her internalize her goals and maintain financial discipline, turning planning into a motivating process.

Practical Tip: Create a “retirement journal.” Write down your future goals, such as travel or hobbies, and calculate how much you need to save monthly to achieve them. Revisit the journal quarterly to adjust the plan.

Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ work also provides tools to communicate and internalize financial concepts. In his book Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, he teaches leaders how to convey complex ideas clearly, inspiring teams to adopt healthy financial practices. Breathing, Voice, and Diction helps individuals gain confidence to negotiate investments or discuss plans with financial advisors. Finally, Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well encourages reflective writing, essential for documenting retirement goals and strategies. These communication skills, combined with financial education, create a solid foundation for planning.

Inspiring Story: Nelson Mandela, despite facing decades of adversity, carefully planned his actions to achieve a better future for his nation. His discipline and long-term vision are an example of how strategic planning can transform realities, just as financial education can shape a successful retirement.

Theater, as proposed by Santos, is a bridge between theory and practice. The ThM (Theater Movement) methodology uses body movement to teach financial concepts, such as balancing spending and investments. In a workshop, participants might “act out” cash flow, moving to represent money coming in and going out. Meanwhile, MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) uses puppets to tell stories about saving and conscious consumption, making learning accessible and fun. A study from the Journal of Economic Education (2024) suggests that creative approaches like these increase financial knowledge retention by up to 30%, especially among adults with low financial literacy.

Motivational Quote: “Education is the key to unlocking the door to freedom.” – Maria Montessori

Financial education also plays a crucial role in reducing stress associated with retirement. A study from the Financial Planning Review (2023) reveals that individuals with clear financial plans report 25% lower anxiety levels as they approach retirement. MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), for instance, helps develop a positive mindset, encouraging practical actions like investing in pension funds or diversifying income sources. In a theatrical exercise, participants might stage “conversations with the future,” dialoguing with an older version of themselves, reinforcing the importance of decisions made today.

Organizational leaders have a special role in this process. They can promote financial education among their teams by creating programs based on Santos’ methodologies. For example, a company implemented MBPT in corporate training. Employees watched a play featuring the Mané Beiçudo puppet, which told the story of a worker learning to save for retirement. After the performance, the company offered financial planning workshops, resulting in a 20% increase in participation in private pension plans. This approach shows how theater can engage and motivate behavioral changes.

Practical Tip: Organize a “finance club” at work or in your community. Meet monthly to discuss retirement goals, share tips, and invite experts for talks. Use theatrical activities to make the meetings more interactive.

The connection between financial education and retirement also involves cultural issues. In many societies, talking about money is taboo, which hinders planning. Santos’ methodologies, by using theater, break these barriers, creating safe spaces to discuss finances. In a school, for instance, ThM was used to teach teenagers about personal budgeting, preparing them to think about retirement early. This preventive approach is essential, as, according to the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center (2024), young people with financial education are more likely to accumulate wealth over their lives.

Historical Tidbit: In Ancient Greece, philosophers like Aristotle already discussed the importance of resource management for well-being. This idea of financial balance is the foundation of modern financial education, which seeks harmony between the present and the future.

Ultimately, financial education is an act of autonomy and responsibility. Planning for retirement is not just about securing resources but also ensuring quality of life, health, and personal fulfillment. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ tools, such as Quasar K+ and theater, offer a creative and human path to achieve this goal. As John Dewey said, “The aim of education is to enable individuals to continue their education.” May each of us, inspired by these ideas, take control of our own future and build a retirement that is synonymous with freedom and fulfillment.

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The great advantages of ‘positive discipline’ in early childhood education

Raising a child is like planting a rare tree: it takes time, patience, affection, and, above all, consistency. One of the most valuable tools in this process is positive discipline, an approach that, instead of relying on severe punishment or authoritarianism, focuses on mutual respect, emotional bonding, and the development of social and emotional skills from early childhood. Inspired by principles developed by Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs in the 20th century, and widely studied by universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and Columbia, positive discipline is gaining ground in schools, homes, and child development centers around the world.

Positive discipline is based on the premise that every child, when misbehaving, is trying to communicate something—whether it’s a need for attention, safety, or connection. Therefore, punishment does not teach. What teaches is dialogue, example, and firm yet gentle guidance. This approach stimulates the development of emotional self-regulation, a crucial skill for children’s academic and social success, as demonstrated by long-term studies from the American Psychological Association.

A practical and inspiring example of this approach comes from Fred Rogers, the beloved educator and host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Instead of harsh reprimands, Rogers communicated with children empathetically, always acknowledging their feelings, validating their emotions, and showing them alternative ways to express themselves. He understood that a child needs to be heard in order to feel safe—and that this sense of security is the first step toward meaningful learning.

In this context, the methodologies developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos offer practical and creative tools to apply positive discipline in everyday life. Through TBMB – Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater, for example, children are invited to engage with narratives that reflect common childhood conflicts—such as tantrums, jealousy, or defiance—and learn, through the characters, more empathetic and cooperative ways to resolve issues. Theater becomes a mirror through which the child sees themselves, understands themselves, and transforms.

The MAT – Mindset, Action, and Theater method goes even further: it combines principles of positive psychology and neuroscience with theatrical practices, helping parents and teachers foster a growth mindset in children—a term coined by Stanford researcher Carol Dweck. By encouraging the idea that mistakes are part of the learning process, MAT strengthens children's self-esteem and transforms the fear of failure into the courage to try.

Meanwhile, ThM – Theater Movement is a bodily and sensory approach that integrates movement, emotion, and language, promoting empathy and active listening. In a ThM circle, for instance, children can express emotions like anger or frustration through their bodies, learning to name and manage them with more awareness. This kind of somatic learning is strongly endorsed by researchers at Columbia and Yale as essential for the development of self-control.

Recent studies from Harvard University confirm that children raised with positive discipline tend to develop better social behavior, leadership and cooperation skills, and show a lower incidence of emotional disorders during adolescence. This is because they feel a sense of belonging, are heard, and are treated with respect—decisive factors for building self-esteem and a sense of responsibility.

Furthermore, Antônio Carlos dos Santos' vast literary production, focused on children, offers a universe of support for the practice of positive discipline. Books such as “Ui Ghur, the little bear that liberated books”, “Happy pets” and “Screens? Only healthy!” address themes such as emotional self-regulation, respect for diversity and cooperation, always with playful, sensitive and deeply humanizing language.

Applying positive discipline is not about being permissive—it’s about setting boundaries with both firmness and affection. It’s about guiding children like a lighthouse, not a whip. It means seeing mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than reasons for humiliation. Above all, it means believing that every human being, from a very young age, is capable of learning to respect—if they are respected first.

Therefore, positive discipline is more than a teaching method. It is a philosophy of life, an invitation to mutual transformation between adults and children. To educate with respect, attentiveness, and presence is to sow the seeds of a more just, kind, and conscious world—a world where children grow not in fear, but in courage and love.

If we hope to build a more empathetic and cooperative society, the path begins with how we speak to our children today. Positive discipline is, without a doubt, one of the most promising trails—and the fruits it bears are everlasting.

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Architecture as an expression of a people's culture

A journey through the forms, spaces, and narratives that reflect the soul of a nation and inspire the future.

From Mayan pyramids to reinvented favelas, architecture is more than stone and concrete—it is a reflection of a people's soul. Discover how it shapes our identity and points toward a sustainable future!

Architecture is much more than the construction of buildings; it is a living language that expresses the values, beliefs, and stories of a people. In Brazil, a country of rich cultural diversity, architecture manifests itself in indigenous temples, colonial mansions, vibrant favelas, and modern skyscrapers, each telling a chapter of our identity. Recent studies in cultural anthropology show that architecture not only reflects culture but also influences human behavior, fostering a sense of belonging and collective pride. This connection between space and identity invites us to rethink how we build our environments, combining functionality, aesthetics, and cultural meaning. An inspiring example of this is the work of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, whose journey blends culture and strategic planning to create spaces that tell stories and transform communities.

Antônio Carlos dos Santos, known as “Mestre Antônio Tuska” in cultural circles, is an emblematic figure who illustrates the power of architecture as a cultural expression. Born in Goiânia, Antônio grew up surrounded by popular manifestations and developed a unique vision of how spaces can be tools for education and social transformation. With an extensive literary output, including works such as Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, Breathing, Voice, and Diction, and Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well, he explores the intersection of art, communication, and planning. His methodologies, such as Quasar K+, apply principles of cultural organization to the planning of spaces, inspiring architects and leaders to think beyond concrete and consider the human impact of their projects. His approach shows that architecture can be an act of resistance and cultural renewal.

Curiosity Box: Who is Antônio Carlos dos Santos?
Born in 1956 in Goiânia, Antônio Carlos dos Santos is an educator, writer, and planner who blends culture, theater, and architecture in his innovative methodologies. Founder of the theater group “Espantalho” in the 1970s, he has used his creations, such as Quasar K+ and MAT, to transform communities and inspire leaders. In 2025, Antônio continues to promote his historical novel Ukuthula, which explores the connection between culture and social transformation.

The Quasar K+ methodology, developed by Antônio, is a brilliant example of how strategic planning can be applied to architecture to reflect a people's culture. Based on the efficiency with which traditional communities organize festivals, such as the Boi-Bumbá in Parintins, Quasar K+ proposes that architectural projects be planned with cultural sensitivity and sustainability. A practical example is the revitalization project of Pelourinho in Salvador, which used similar principles to preserve colonial architecture while incorporating elements of Afro-Brazilian culture, such as vibrant colors and spaces for popular manifestations. Studies on cultural management indicate that projects planned based on local values have greater acceptance and impact, reinforcing community identity. Quasar K+ teaches us that architecture can be a mirror of the collective soul.

Practical Tip: Plan with Culture in Mind
When designing an architectural project, whether a home or a public space, consider elements of local culture: colors, materials, or forms that evoke the traditions of your region. This creates environments that connect people to their roots and promote well-being.

The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology by Antônio Carlos dos Santos brings theatricality to architecture, proposing that spaces be designed as stages for everyday life. MAT suggests that architects, when creating environments, consider the stories these spaces will tell, fostering a creative and collaborative mindset. Research in cultural neuroscience shows that environments designed with narrative elements, such as murals or sculptures, activate brain areas related to memory and emotion, strengthening people's connection to the space. An example is Sesc Pompeia, designed by Lina Bo Bardi, which transformed an ancient factory into a vibrant cultural center, with spaces that encourage interaction and artistic expression. MAT reminds us that architecture should inspire action and human connection.

Inspiring Story: Lina Bo Bardi and Sesc Pompeia
Lina Bo Bardi, one of Brazil’s greatest architects, transformed an abandoned factory into Sesc Pompeia in São Paulo, a cultural space that celebrates coexistence. With open areas, a theater, and raw elements, the project reflects Brazilian culture in an accessible and welcoming way, inspiring architects to rethink the role of public spaces.

ThM is another methodology from Mestre Antônio’s repertoire, one that uses theatrical/body movements as a cultural expression. Inspired by popular dances like the moçambique and catira, ThM encourages participants to “tell stories with their bodies,” promoting physical and emotional health. Recent studies in social psychology indicate that collective rhythmic practices, such as traditional dances, reduce stress and enhance a sense of belonging. In Salvador, for example, amateur theater groups founded by students of Mestre Antônio used ThM in workshops for vulnerable youth, helping them find their voice through movement. This inspiring story shows how popular culture can be a refuge and a form of resistance in challenging contexts.

Inspiring Story: The Rebirth of Theater
In Belém, several groups of young people who participated in Antônio Carlos’s ThM workshops redirected their cultural practices, reviving regional folk traditions and practicing a theater aligned with the aspirations of local communities.

The MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) methodology is another gem from Antônio’s legacy. Focused on the use of puppets—both hand puppets and giant ones—inspired by folk characters like the Saci, MBPT captivates children and adults while teaching about Brazilian folklore. A study on early childhood education found that the use of puppets increases engagement and information retention in children, making learning more playful. Mestre Antônio Tuska uses the Mané Beiçudo puppet in storytelling sessions that address themes like diversity and inclusion, turning entertainment into life lessons. Puppet theater festivals across Brazil continue to spread this magic, showing that popular culture can unite generations.

Motivational Quote: Anísio Teixeira
“Education is not just instruction, but the construction of a people that recognizes and takes pride in its culture.” – Anísio Teixeira

The Quasar K+ methodology, a strategic planning approach developed by Antônio Carlos, is an example of how popular culture can inspire even modern approaches. Based on the idea that traditional communities plan their festivals with efficiency and creativity, Quasar K+ helps groups organize cultural projects sustainably. Several cultural festivals, from Oiapoque to Chuí, use Quasar K+ principles to manage resources and attract audiences, keeping Brazilian folk traditions alive. Studies on cultural management indicate that community-driven initiatives have greater social impact, and cultural tourism, such as in Parintins, is an economic driver that promotes local pride. This approach shows how popular culture is a living legacy that renews itself without losing its essence.

Popular culture also plays a crucial role in building national identity in times of globalization. As the world becomes more connected, there is a risk of cultural homogenization, but popular traditions are a powerful antidote. Samba, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is an example of this: born in Afro-Brazilian communities, it resisted oppression and is now a symbol of Brazil. Figures like Cartola and Dona Ivone Lara used samba to tell stories of struggle and joy, inspiring generations. Researchers highlight that popular music strengthens collective memory, helping us maintain our identity in a constantly changing world.

Motivational Quote: Nelson Mandela
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of their skin, their background, or their culture. To hate, one must learn. And if they can learn to hate, they can learn to love.” – Nelson Mandela

Looking to the future, popular culture is a bridge that leads us to new horizons. Initiatives like hip-hop in the peripheries and indigenous culture festivals show that traditions are not static but evolve. Young creators, such as the indigenous rapper Kaê Guajajara, blend traditional elements with contemporary expressions, proving that national identity is a dynamic process. Antônio Carlos dos Santos delivers a clear message: popular culture is not a museum but a laboratory of ideas. It is up to us, as citizens, to preserve and reinvent this legacy so that it continues to inspire future generations.

Final Practical Tip: Be a Cultural Ambassador
Create a study group or event to explore your region’s traditions. Use social media to share videos, recipes, or stories, inspiring others to value their roots. Culture thrives when we share it!

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Aristophanes, the Icon of Greek Comedy

   Aristophanes, born around 447 BC, is widely recognized as one of the greatest playwrights of ancient Greek comedy, a literary genius who skillfully blended humor, social critique, and political commentary in a unique way.

His plays not only entertained but also provided profound reflections on Athenian society, its values, and the tensions of his time. To truly appreciate Aristophanes' significance, we must look at both the historical context in which he lived and the lasting legacy he left in comedy and theater.

Athens, in the 5th century BC, was the cultural and intellectual center of the Greek world, marked by democracy, flourishing philosophy, and constant wars, such as the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BC). Aristophanes lived during this turbulent period, and his works reflect the complex social and political dynamics of his time. Through his comedy, he addressed themes such as political corruption, war, education, and justice, using laughter as a tool to provoke thought. A classic example of this political satire is his play The Knights, where he openly mocks Cleon, a prominent Athenian political leader.

Among his most famous works is Lysistrata, a comedy in which a group of women refuses to engage in sexual relations with their husbands until they make peace and end the war. The humor here is obvious and light-hearted, but Aristophanes was, in fact, making a powerful statement about the irrationality of war. Lysistrata has become a lasting symbol of pacifism, referenced in various modern anti-war campaigns. His ability to use humor to address such serious themes is a testament to his genius as a playwright.

Another key play by Aristophanes is The Clouds, where he satirizes the philosophy and education of his time, especially the Socratic method. In the play, Socrates is depicted as a cynical and manipulative sophist, a portrayal that, while caricatured, reflects the intellectual tensions of ancient Athens. The Clouds reminds us that humor, besides being a form of entertainment, can be a powerful tool for questioning norms and challenging the status quo. In fact, the play caused such controversy that, according to reports, Socrates himself was deeply offended by how he was portrayed.

Aristophanes was also a master of theatrical innovation. His plays did not follow a rigid structure, and he often broke the "fourth wall," speaking directly to the audience or using the chorus in unconventional ways to comment on the events of the play. One of his most creative works in this regard is The Birds, where he imagines a world where birds dominate the sky and create a new city, free from the problems of human society. This play is an example of Aristophanes' visionary nature, who used comedy not just to criticize but also to dream of utopian alternatives.

Beyond his immediate impact on Athenian society, Aristophanes' legacy has transcended generations. His influence is evident in many forms of modern comedy, from Molière's theater to the political satires we see on television. The essence of Aristophanes' humor—the use of irony, absurdity, and social critique—strongly resonates in contemporary works. For example, shows like The Daily Show or Saturday Night Live use humor to address political issues, a technique Aristophanes popularized more than two thousand years ago.

Although Aristophanes' comedies were often directly tied to the events and characters of his time, they carry universal themes. Corruption, the madness of war, and the tensions between the individual and society are timeless issues that continue to resonate today. That is why, when we study his plays, we are not just exploring the history of comedy but also reflecting on issues that still affect us. Peace, another of his works, illustrates this timelessness, where the playwright humorously imagines a farmer who, tired of war, travels to the heavens in search of Peace, represented as a goddess who is imprisoned.

Interestingly, Aristophanes also stood out for his ability to challenge social conventions and subvert traditional roles. In The Assemblywomen, he portrays women taking control of Athenian politics, a radical idea for his time. Once again, Aristophanes shows us that humor can be a way of exploring new social and political possibilities, questioning established norms in an accessible and fun way. The play anticipates discussions about gender equality that are still relevant today.

Despite the comedic tone, Aristophanes' plays also expressed genuine concern for the fate of Athens and the Greek world. His work reflects a deep love for his city and Greek culture, but also a frustration with the human failings that hindered progress. Aristophanes' humor was, in many ways, a way of dealing with these frustrations and provoking change through collective reflection.

Aristophanes' legacy is a testament to the transformative power of comedy. He teaches us that laughter can be a powerful form of resistance, critique, and imagination. His works continue to be performed and studied around the world, inspiring generations of comedians, writers, and thinkers. If there is one thing we can learn from Aristophanes, it is that comedy, even in the darkest situations, can provide us not only with relief but also with a new way of seeing the world.

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How to take care of children's anxiety?

 

      Anxiety in children is an increasingly common concern among parents and educators. With a fast-paced world full of stimuli, children are exposed to multiple stressors that can impact their emotional and cognitive development. Studies from institutions such as Harvard University and the University of Oxford show that prolonged anxiety in childhood can affect brain plasticity and lead to difficulties in learning, socialization, and emotional regulation. However, with appropriate strategies, it is possible to help children regain emotional balance and develop resilience.

One of the first steps in managing childhood anxiety is to understand its symptoms. Children express anxiety in different ways, including excessive crying, irritability, avoidance behaviors, difficulty sleeping, and even physical complaints such as headaches and stomachaches. Unlike adults, children may not have the vocabulary to express their emotions, which makes it essential for parents and teachers to pay close attention to behavioral changes.

The environment in which the child is inserted plays a fundamental role in emotional regulation. According to Vygotsky's theories on development, social interaction is a key factor in the formation of cognitive and emotional skills. Creating a safe, predictable environment where the child feels heard and supported significantly reduces anxiety levels. Encouraging open dialogue, validating feelings, and maintaining a structured routine are important strategies in this process.

Breathing and relaxation techniques are highly effective in managing anxiety in children. The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program, developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts, has demonstrated the benefits of meditation and conscious breathing in reducing anxiety. Simple exercises such as "balloon breathing," where the child inflates their belly like a balloon while inhaling and slowly releases the air while exhaling, can help calm the nervous system.

Physical activity is another powerful ally in reducing childhood anxiety. A study from Stanford University revealed that moderate exercise stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for emotional regulation. Activities such as dancing, playing outdoors, and practicing sports help release accumulated tension and promote a sense of well-being.

Storytelling and artistic expression also play a significant role in processing emotions. According to psychologist Bruno Bettelheim, stories allow children to project their fears and anxieties onto fictional characters, which helps them understand and manage their own emotions. Drawing, painting, and role-playing games serve as therapeutic tools that allow children to express themselves without the need for words.

Another essential aspect is the presence of a secure emotional bond between the child and their caregivers. The Attachment Theory, developed by John Bowlby, highlights that strong and consistent emotional bonds create a sense of security that helps children deal with stress. Simple daily actions such as hugs, affectionate words, and attentive listening strengthen this bond and provide emotional support.

Limiting the use of screens and excessive exposure to digital media is also important. Studies from Cambridge University indicate that excessive screen time can increase anxiety levels in children, especially due to the constant stimulation of social media and video games. Encouraging moments of direct interaction, free play, and contact with nature contributes to better emotional balance.

Teaching problem-solving skills helps children develop self-confidence and resilience. The Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, widely studied at Yale University, suggests that guiding children to identify their concerns, question negative thoughts, and seek solutions fosters emotional self-regulation. Encouraging children to face their fears gradually, rather than avoiding them, also strengthens their ability to deal with stress.

Finally, leading by example is one of the most effective ways to teach children to manage anxiety. Parents and educators who practice self-care, demonstrate patience, and maintain calm in stressful situations provide a positive model for children. Showing that emotions are natural and that there are ways to deal with them constructively creates a safe and nurturing environment for emotional growth.

Caring for children's anxiety is a continuous process that requires attention, patience, and knowledge. By adopting evidence-based strategies and promoting emotional intelligence from an early age, it is possible to build a generation of emotionally healthy and resilient children, capable of facing life's challenges with confidence and balance.

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Eastern theater and the effect of distancing

Eastern theater, with its millennia-old traditions and unique aesthetics, offers a vast field of study on communication, expression, and audience perception. One of its most striking features is the effect of distancing, a concept that gains relevance not only in theater but also in the way we interact and understand the reality around us. Inspired by traditional techniques and reinforced by contemporary studies, theatrical distancing is a powerful tool for educating, transforming, and inspiring.

The concept of distancing, widely explored in Bertolt Brecht's theater, has its roots in much older traditions of Eastern theater, especially in Japanese Noh, Peking opera, and Indian Kathakali theater. These forms of theater use exaggerated expressiveness, codified gestures, and masks to create a space where the audience does not emotionally identify with the characters in the same way as in Western theater, but rather reflects on the message and symbolism behind the scene. This technique provokes an experience of deep reflection rather than mere emotional immersion.

The MAT methodology (Mindset, Action, and Theater), created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, applies these principles to the training of actors and leaders, emphasizing how distancing can be used to create awareness and engagement. When training an actor or communicator to adopt a distanced perspective of their own experience, they become more capable of analyzing their emotions and conveying their message more impactfully. This is essential not only for theater but also for education, politics, and business.

The effect of distancing in Eastern theater is also manifested in the use of masks, a technique explored by ThM (Theater Movement), also developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos. In Noh theater, for example, a slight tilt of the head completely changes the expression of a mask, requiring the audience to engage in an active and conscious interpretation. This cognitive involvement is essential for stimulating reflection and creating a lasting impact, unlike more naturalistic theatrical experiences, which provoke a more passive and emotional identification.

In the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), another methodology developed by Santos, distancing is explored through the interaction between puppeteers and puppets, allowing complex messages to be conveyed in a playful and accessible manner. Studies from the University of Tokyo indicate that puppet theater stimulates brain regions associated with empathy and problem-solving, making it an effective tool for education and emotional development. The TBMB approach has been widely applied in corporate and educational training, showing that theater can go beyond entertainment and become a powerful mechanism for learning and social transformation.

Through the principles of distancing, Eastern theater teaches that emotion does not need to be merely experienced but also analyzed and reinterpreted. This concept has a direct impact on how we deal with personal and professional challenges. Studies from Peking University demonstrate that individuals trained in emotional distancing techniques are more resilient and make more assertive decisions, as they can separate immediate emotion from the rational evaluation of a situation.

In the modern world, where rapid interactions and overstimulation often lead to impulsive responses, learning from Eastern theater and its distancing techniques can make us more reflective and aware. Applying these practices in daily life—whether in a work presentation, negotiations, or personal life—allows us to express our ideas more clearly and effectively.

Eastern theater and its associated methodologies show that the distance between the actor and the character is, in fact, a space for creation and reflection. The same applies to our lives: by momentarily distancing ourselves from a situation, we can analyze it better and find innovative solutions. As Antônio Carlos states, “Theatre is a universe in constant expansion and we have the opportunity and privilege to explore it”. The lesson we can draw from this approach is the ability to transform our own reality through awareness and reflection.

Thus, whether on stage or in life, the effect of distancing invites us to take a deeper look at our actions, feelings, and relationships. It teaches us that understanding and transforming the world around us requires not only emotion but also analysis, awareness, and intention. Eastern theater, in all its symbolic richness, remains an inexhaustible source of learning for those who wish to grow, communicate better, and inspire authentic transformations.

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