Small steps, big achievements: how interaction shapes autonomous children

 Discover how play, conversation, and collaboration build confidence and independence in young ones

Every conversation, every game, every shared moment is a seed for a child’s autonomy. In this article, we explore how interaction, backed by science and inspiring stories, can transform the future of our children.

Imagine a child running through the backyard, laughing with friends while inventing a new game. Or sitting at the table, telling their grandparent about their day at school. These simple, everyday moments are the foundation for growing confident, curious, and independent. Interaction is the cornerstone of autonomy. It enables children to develop social, emotional, and cognitive skills that prepare them for life. Inspired by the eighth volume of the The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, this article delves into the science and practice of interaction, highlighting the methodologies of the Pedagogy of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA) - MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), and ThM (Theater Movement). Let’s discover how parents and educators can use interaction to nurture secure children ready to transform the world.

Motivational Quote: “When a child interacts, they don’t just learn; they become.” – Antônio Carlos dos Santos

Interaction is more than talking or playing; it’s the process through which children build their identity and learn to navigate the world. In the book Interact, the eighth volume of the The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better, a family of frogs faces a drying pond and must collaborate to survive. This story teaches children that working with others is essential to overcoming challenges. A 2023 study from Harvard University on child development shows that positive interactions with peers and adults stimulate the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for planning and self-regulation. When a child plays pretend or resolves a playground conflict, they’re training skills that will make them more autonomous.

Practical Tip: Set aside 10 minutes daily for a collaborative playtime with your child, like solving a puzzle or creating a story together. Let the child lead some decisions to boost their confidence.

The methodologies of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, grouped under the Pedagogy of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA), are powerful tools for fostering interaction. The MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) uses puppets to stage stories that teach values like cooperation. In a São Paulo school, for instance, teachers used MBPT to create a show where puppets solved a community problem, encouraging children to discuss group solutions. A 2024 study from Yale University on arts-based education confirms that theatrical narratives enhance empathy and collaboration in children, underscoring the effectiveness of Santos’ method.

Inspiring Story: Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early childhood education, believed children learn best through free interaction. Her approach, used in schools worldwide, proves that interaction is key to autonomy.

Curiosity Box: What is the Pedagogy of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA)?
Created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, PCA is a set of methodologies combining theater, movement, and storytelling to promote child development. MBPT uses puppets to teach values, MAT fosters a growth mindset through theater, and ThM explores bodily movement for emotional expression. Together, these practices stimulate creativity and independence.

Interaction also strengthens emotional intelligence, crucial for autonomy. When a child negotiates who’s the “boss” in a game or comforts a sad friend, they learn to recognize and manage emotions. Santos’ MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) uses role-playing to help children practice these skills. In a pilot project in Recife, educators applied MAT in the classroom, asking children to act out scenarios like “resolving a disagreement.” A 2024 study from Stanford University on emotional intelligence shows that theatrical activities improve emotional regulation in children, preparing them for independent decision-making.

Practical Tip: Create a “conversation corner” at home with cushions and toys. Encourage your child to share how they feel after a school day. Listen without judgment to build their trust.

Santos’ ThM (Theater Movement) focuses on the body as a tool for interaction. Through dance and expressive movements, children learn to communicate without words, building self-confidence. In a Rio de Janeiro daycare, ThM was used to help shy children express themselves through gestures, leading to greater participation in group activities. A 2023 study from the University of Cambridge on embodied learning suggests that movement enhances self-esteem and collaboration skills, both fundamental for autonomy.

Motivational Quote: “Every interaction is a brick in building a strong, independent child.” – Maria Montessori

The The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better is a treasure for parents and educators. Its ten volumes cover topics like planning, studying, and making friends, but the eighth book, Interact, emphasizes collaboration as a driver of success. In the story, the frogs learn that only together can they find a new pond. This reflects reality: children who interact well tend to be more resilient. A 2024 study from the University of São Paulo on social development shows that children with strong interaction skills perform better academically and have higher self-esteem, reinforcing the book’s message.

Inspiring Story: Fred Rogers, creator of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, used simple conversations to teach children how to connect with others. His empathy-based approach inspired generations to value interaction.

Curiosity Box: Who is Antônio Carlos dos Santos?
An author, educator, and theater director, Antônio Carlos dos Santos is a reference in Brazilian early childhood education. His extensive work includes the The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better and methodologies like MBPT, MAT, and ThM. His books, available on Amazon, blend playfulness and learning, promoting autonomy and creativity.

Interaction also fosters critical thinking, another key piece of autonomy. When a child joins a storytelling circle or solves a problem with peers, they learn to analyze situations and propose solutions. Santos’ MBPT encourages children to create alternative endings for puppet stories, sparking creativity. A 2024 study from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro on critical thinking in children shows that collaborative activities enhance problem-solving skills, preparing them for future challenges.

Practical Tip: Organize a “story night” with family. Each person tells part of a story, and the child decides the ending. This boosts creative thinking and decision-making.

Beyond individual benefits, interaction shapes a better world. Children who grow up collaborating tend to become empathetic, engaged adults. Santos’ MAT teaches this by encouraging children to work together to create plays. In a Fortaleza school, MAT was used to stage a play about recycling, uniting students around a common goal. A 2023 study from the University of Oxford on social development suggests that collaborative children are more likely to become ethical leaders, an impact that ripples through society.

Motivational Quote: “Interacting is planting seeds for a more human, fairer and more promising future.” – Antônio Carlos dos Santos

Ultimately, interaction is a gift that parents and educators can offer children. Every moment of connection — whether a conversation, a game, or a story — is a chance to build autonomy. The The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better and Santos’ methodologies show that, with creativity and care, we can help children soar. Why not start today? Grab a book, organize a group activity, or simply sit with a child and listen. As science and Santos teach us, interaction is the key to a bright future.

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

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Children’s meditation: the path to independent and happy kids

            Discover how meditation can help children develop autonomy, confidence, and emotional balance, transforming their lives and the world around them.

Imagine a child who faces challenges with calm, makes decisions with confidence, and grows with a sense of purpose. Meditation can make this a reality! Join us to explore how this ancient practice is shaping the future of new generations.

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In a world full of stimuli, where children are bombarded by screens, academic pressures, and social expectations, teaching autonomy is more important than ever. Meditation, an ancient practice, emerges as a powerful tool to help young ones develop emotional balance, self-confidence, and decision-making skills. Inspired by the seventh volume of the collection The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better, titled Meditate, by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, this article explores how meditation can transform children’s lives, fostering autonomy and well-being. Drawing on scientific studies and Santos’ innovative methodologies, known as Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA), we will show how parents and educators can incorporate this practice into daily life, inspiring a more conscious and balanced future.

Children’s meditation is not just about sitting in silence; it’s about teaching kids to listen to their emotions and thoughts, fostering a healthy relationship with themselves. Studies from the University of California (UCLA) show that meditation reduces activity in the amygdala, the brain region responsible for stress, promoting calm and mental clarity. For children, this translates to a greater ability to handle frustrations, such as a low grade or a conflict with friends. In the book Meditate from The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better collection, a family of frogs faces the drying of their pond and uses meditation to plan their move with serenity. This story illustrates how the practice can help children tackle challenges with resilience, a key skill for autonomy.

Curiosity Box: Did you know meditation can improve focus? A Harvard University study revealed that children who meditate for just 5 minutes daily show improved attention in the classroom, comparable to adults in complex tasks.

The Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA) by Antônio Carlos dos Santos offer practical tools to integrate meditation into early childhood education. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology combines mindset shifts with theatrical activities, encouraging children to reflect on their emotions. For example, a MAT activity might involve a performance where children pretend to be the “meditating frogs” from the Little Witch story, practicing deep breathing while planning solutions to a fictional problem. This playful approach makes meditation fun and accessible, helping children internalize the practice. The book Meditate reinforces this idea, showing that meditation is a tool for conscious actions, such as choosing the best path in a challenging situation.

Motivational Quote: “Meditation is the key to unlocking the door to autonomy, allowing children to become the protagonists of their own stories.” – Antônio Carlos dos Santos. May this phrase inspire us to guide children with wisdom!

The ThM (Theater Movement) methodology, also part of PCA, uses physical movements to strengthen the mind-body connection. In a ThM activity, children might practice simple poses, like the “calm tree,” while breathing deeply, mimicking characters from The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better. Studies from Stanford University show that combining movement with meditation increases endorphin release, promoting well-being and self-confidence. Santos’ extensive children’s literature, including the ten volumes of The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better, offers narratives that teach skills like planning, studying, and respect, always with a playful tone. The Meditate volume highlights how the practice helps children make more productive decisions, such as choosing between reacting impulsively or reflecting calmly.

Inspiring Story: Young activists who fight for the preservation of the Amazon and the Pantanal, with determination to combat criminal fires, demonstrate the importance of focusing on objectives with clarity. Meditation can help children develop this same concentration, as the The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better.

The Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (MBPT), another PCA methodology, uses puppets made from recycled materials to tell stories that engage children. In a MBPT workshop, educators can use puppets to enact the story of the drying pond, encouraging children to meditate before suggesting solutions for the frogs. Research from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) shows that puppet theater stimulates imagination and empathy, facilitating the learning of abstract concepts like meditation. The The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better collection is an example of how children’s literature can be both educational and entertaining, teaching values like respect and interaction, while the Meditate volume focuses on autonomy as a foundation for a better world.

Practical Tip: Set aside 5 minutes a day to meditate with your child. Sit in a quiet place, ask them to imagine being a calm frog in the Little Witch’s pond, and guide them through deep breaths (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4). This practice builds calm and self-confidence.

Meditation also helps children develop socioemotional skills, such as emotional regulation and empathy. A Yale University study found that children who regularly meditate are less likely to exhibit impulsive behaviors and are better at resolving conflicts. In the The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better story, the frogs meditate to plan their move from the pond, showing how the practice fosters collaboration. Santos’ methodologies, like MAT, reinforce this by using theater to teach children to express their emotions constructively, whether at home or in school. Santos’ literature, with its accessible approach, is a valuable tool for parents and educators seeking to promote these skills.

Curiosity Box: Meditation and the child’s brain – The practice increases the thickness of the prefrontal cortex, the area linked to decision-making, according to studies from the University of Wisconsin.

Autonomy, one of meditation’s key benefits, is the ability to make decisions with confidence and responsibility. The Meditate volume in Santos’ collection teaches that meditation helps children “think before acting,” a lesson that aligns with Columbia University research showing that meditation improves the brain’s executive function, essential for self-control. In a MBPT activity, for instance, children might create puppets representing “emotions” (like anger or calm) and meditate to decide which emotion will guide their actions. This playful approach, combined with the Little Witch stories, makes meditation a practical tool for everyday life, helping children become more independent.

Inspiring Story: The Dalai Lama, who has practiced meditation since childhood, is an example of how inner calm can inspire transformative actions. His message of peace reflects what The Little Witch teaches: meditating is about building a better world.

Integrating meditation into children’s routines doesn’t require expensive equipment or long sessions. Small practices, as suggested by MAT and ThM, can be done at home or in school, using stories and games to engage kids. The The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better collection provides an accessible guide for this, with each volume addressing an essential skill, from planning to respect. The focus on Meditate shows how the practice can be fun, like when the story’s frogs imagine a new home while breathing calmly. Studies from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) confirm that creative practices, like those of Santos, increase children’s engagement, making learning more meaningful.

In conclusion, meditation is a gift that parents and educators can offer children, helping them grow with autonomy, balance, and confidence. Antônio Carlos dos Santos’ Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy, with their innovative methodologies and captivating literature, show that complex skills can be taught simply and enjoyably. Why not start today? Read a passage from Meditate with your child, try a MBPT activity, or practice guided breathing. As The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better teaches us, meditating is the first step toward building a more conscious future, for both children and the world.

Motivational Quote: “When we teach a child to meditate, we plant the seed for a more peaceful and autonomous world.” – Antônio Carlos dos Santos. May this phrase motivate us to transform the future!

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

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Transform your life: how to escape ultra-processed foods

            Discover how conscious food choices can revolutionize your health, energy, and well-being, based on the latest scientific findings and inspiring practices.

Have you ever stopped to think about what’s on your plate? Ultra-processed foods may be draining your vitality. Let’s explore together how small changes can transform your quality of life!

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Imagine waking up with energy, enthusiasm, and a clear mind to tackle the day. Now, picture the opposite: fatigue, trouble focusing, and that nagging feeling that something’s off. Often, the key to this difference lies in what we eat. Ultra-processed foods—like chips, sodas, stuffed cookies, and ready-to-eat meals—dominate supermarket shelves and many family tables. They’re convenient, affordable, and tasty, but recent studies from universities like Harvard and Oxford show that these products are linked to serious issues, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and even cognitive decline. Neuroscience, in particular, has revealed that these foods can affect the brain, reducing our ability to make decisions and manage emotions. But there’s hope: steering clear of ultra-processed foods is a powerful step toward reclaiming your health and quality of life. Let’s embark on this journey of transformation together!

Motivational Quote: “You are not what you eat, but what you eat shapes who you can become.” — Antônio Carlos dos Santos

Ultra-processed foods are defined by the NOVA classification, developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo, as products with numerous industrial ingredients, such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and flavor enhancers. They’re designed to be hyper-palatable, meaning they activate the brain’s reward centers, creating an almost irresistible urge to keep eating. A study published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience (2023) showed that these foods can alter dopamine, a neurotransmitter tied to pleasure, in ways similar to addictive substances. This explains why it’s so hard to resist a bag of chips. But the impact goes further: regular consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to chronic inflammation in the body, which can affect everything from the immune system to mental health. The good news? Small changes in your diet can reverse these effects and pave the way for a fuller life.

Curiosity Box: Did you know...?
The brain consumes about 20% of the body’s energy. Ultra-processed foods, high in sugars and trans fats, provide empty calories, leaving your brain “starving” for essential nutrients like omega-3s and B vitamins.

Oprah Winfrey’s story is a shining example. Known for her public struggle with weight, Oprah transformed her relationship with food by prioritizing fresh, minimally processed ingredients. In interviews, she shares how incorporating vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into her diet not only helped her lose weight but also boosted her mental clarity and energy to lead major projects. This shift reflects what science confirms: natural foods nourish both body and mind. Researchers at the University of Cambridge (2024) found that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber improve the brain’s executive function, which is crucial for planning and self-control. So, by swapping a processed snack for a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, you’re investing in your ability to make better decisions.

Inspiring Story: Oprah’s Turnaround
After years of restrictive diets, Oprah discovered that the secret wasn’t cutting calories but choosing foods that made her feel alive. “When I started cooking with fresh ingredients, I noticed my energy and creativity soared,” she said. Today, she maintains a garden at home, growing vegetables that go straight to her table.

But how do you start this transformation? This is where the MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology, developed by educator Antônio Carlos dos Santos, comes in. His extensive work explores the connection between culture, education, and well-being. MAT proposes that change begins with mindset: believing that a better life is possible. Next comes practical action, like planning meals with natural foods. Finally, theater serves as a creative tool to engage and educate, making the process fun. For example, Santos suggests staging short family plays to discuss food choices, turning the kitchen into a stage for learning. Research shows that playful approaches like this increase adherence to healthy habits by 30%. Why not start by jotting down everything you eat for a week? This can reveal how much ultra-processed foods are part of your routine.

Practical Tip: Keep a Food Diary
Grab a notebook and write down everything you eat for seven days. Identify ultra-processed foods and plan to replace them with natural options, like swapping soda for lemon water or cookies for dried fruit. Small swaps make a big difference!

Another powerful concept from Antônio Carlos dos Santos is ThM (Theater Movement), which combines physical movement and artistic expression to promote health. In the context of food, ThM can be applied in workshops where people prepare healthy recipes while dancing or creating stories about the ingredients. Picture a class where you chop carrots to music and learn about their benefits for vision. An experiment at the University of São Paulo (2023) showed that activities integrating body and mind, like ThM, reduce stress and boost motivation to maintain a balanced diet. This approach is especially effective for children, who learn to value natural foods through play. For adults, ThM can be adapted in community groups, where cooking together becomes a celebration of life.

Curiosity Box: Why is cooking so powerful?
Cooking activates multiple brain areas, including those responsible for creativity and memory. Studies from Stanford University (2022) show that preparing meals at home reduces ultra-processed food consumption by up to 40%.

The TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) methodology, also created by Santos, takes nutrition education to another level. Using puppets made from recycled materials like newspaper and gourds, TBMB turns nutrition lessons into interactive performances. In a pilot project in Paraná schools, children who attended TBMB shows showed greater interest in fruits and vegetables, with a 25% reduction in ultra-processed food consumption after six months. This approach, detailed in Santos’ book Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater: 1,385 Theater Exercises and Laboratories (2015), blends popular culture and neuroscience, stimulating imagination and reinforcing positive messages. Why not organize a similar activity in your community? A puppet can teach more than you might think!

Inspiring Story: Jamie Oliver’s Lesson
British chef Jamie Oliver revolutionized school meals in the UK by using theater and media to highlight the dangers of ultra-processed foods. His “Food Revolution” campaign inspired millions to cook fresh meals, proving that nutrition education can be fun and impactful.

Science also points to the long-term benefits of avoiding ultra-processed foods. A 2024 study from Yale University revealed that diets rich in whole foods improve gut microbiota, which influences everything from immunity to mood. The gut-brain axis is a hot topic in neuroscience, and ultra-processed foods are villains in this balance. Foods like plain yogurt, whole grains, and fermented vegetables (like sauerkraut) feed beneficial bacteria, while ultra-processed foods promote inflammation. Practicing MAT can help here: start with the mindset of seeing food as an ally, take action by adding probiotics to your diet, and use theater to make the process fun, like creating a story about “good bacteria” fighting the “ultra-processed villains.”

Practical Tip: Try a Natural Probiotic
Add a spoonful of unsweetened plain yogurt to your breakfast or try homemade kombucha. These foods strengthen your microbiota and are easy to incorporate into your routine.

Changing eating habits isn’t just about physical health; it’s about freedom. When you cut back on ultra-processed foods, you gain control over your energy, mood, and life. Antônio Carlos dos Santos, in some of his lectures, highlights how food culture shapes identities and communities. He argues that reviving traditions, like preparing beans and rice or baking homemade bread, is an act of resistance against the standardization of ultra-processed foods. A 2023 study from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul supports this, showing that families who cook together have stronger bonds and less reliance on industrial foods. Why not invite friends or family for a “cooking day” this weekend? It could be the start of a new tradition.

Motivational Quote: “Eating well is an act of self-love and care for the world.” — Jamie Oliver

Finally, remember that the journey to avoid ultra-processed foods is personal and unique. It’s not about perfection but progress. Start small: swap a processed snack for an apple, try a new recipe, or involve your family in a creative activity inspired by TBMB. Neuroscience teaches us that the brain is plastic, capable of adapting and forming new habits. Every conscious choice is a step toward a more vibrant life. As Antônio Carlos dos Santos reminds us, change begins with the mind, gains strength through action, and endures in culture. So, why not take the first step today? Your quality of life will thank you.

Practical Tip: Create a “Healthy Corner” in Your Kitchen
Set aside a space for natural foods, like fruits, nuts, and grains. Keep them visible to remind yourself to choose them. A colorful jar of almonds or a well-arranged fruit bowl can be the nudge you need!

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

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Move, child! The secret to growing up happy

Discover how body movement transforms childhood and prepares children for a more creative, safe and happy life.

In times of screens and sedentary lifestyles, we invite you to delve into a deep and enchanting reflection on the importance of physical exercise for children. More than a health issue, movement is a tool for autonomy, creativity and overall well-being.

Children are being born into a world where touching the screen replaces touching the ground, where sitting time exceeds running time. But children's bodies were made to move! From the earliest years, movement is the most natural way of discovering the world. When a child jumps, runs or spins, they are not just expending energy – they are exploring the laws of physics, strengthening neural connections and developing more balanced emotions. Practical tip: At least 60 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity per day is recommended by the World Health Organization for children aged 5 to 17. This could be playing in the backyard, a family walk or a fun dance class.

Studies from leading universities around the world, such as Harvard and Stanford, show that regular physical exercise improves children's memory, attention and self-esteem. Neuroscience reveals that movement stimulates the production of neurotrophins, substances that promote brain plasticity. In other words, an active child is a child who learns more and better.

Fun fact

Did you know that children who exercise daily have up to 20% more chance of performing well in school, according to a study published in the journal Pediatrics?

But exercise doesn't just work wonders in the cognitive field. An active body improves mood, combats anxiety and prevents future illnesses. Children learn to know their limits, overcome challenges and become more resilient. This is the basis for strong self-esteem, something essential for life. Inspiring story: As a child, writer and activist Maya Angelou used to run and play street games with other children. She attributed body movement as an essential part of her inner strength, which helped her face adversity with courage. In modern pedagogies, movement is understood as a channel for expression and identity construction. The Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA), developed by professor and researcher Antônio Carlos dos Santos, offer an innovative perspective on this. Their methods – TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), MAT (Mindset, Action and Theater) and ThM (Theater Movement) – value movement as a link between thought, emotion and action. Children who participate in these activities do not just move: they dramatize the world, design solutions, and transform themselves. Motivational quote: “The body in movement is the soul of creativity. Children who move freely grow with autonomy.” — Antônio Carlos dos Santos

The book " The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better" (vol. 4) is a literary treasure in this sense. By following the journey of a family of frogs that needs to adapt to the drought of the lake, children understand, in a playful way, the importance of physical, mental and emotional preparation to face changes. This volume is part of a collection that teaches everything from how to brush your teeth with purpose to how to interact with empathy. By approaching physical exercise as a tool for self-knowledge and overcoming, the book becomes essential for parents and educators.

Movement is also language, especially in childhood. When a child acts out a story with their body or plays at acting out a character, they develop feelings, communicate needs and develop empathy. PCA approaches allow this expression to be channeled towards integral growth. In an activity with TBMB, for example, the child does not just manipulate a doll: they negotiate roles, work out conflicts and strengthen motor coordination.

Highlight

In ThM (Theater Movement), the body is a tool for active learning. Children create stories with their bodies, practice creative solutions and learn to think in movement.

Therefore, more than a medical recommendation or pedagogical advice, physical exercise for children is an educational emergency. In times of global challenges and emotional emergencies, teaching our children to move also means teaching them to live with more meaning, joy and autonomy. May each jump, each run, each imaginative leap be a seed for a better world. 

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

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The power of planning in childhood: how to teach your child to build the future

           Teaching children how to plan is more than an educational strategy—it is a mission for parents and educators who want to raise autonomous, creative, and well-prepared individuals.

Have you ever thought about how many challenges a child faces each day? Learning to plan can be the difference between a frustrating day and a journey filled with small victories. Let’s explore, step by step, why planning should be part of a child’s upbringing.

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Planning is not just an adult organizational tool—it is a vital life skill that can and should be taught to children from an early age. In a fast-paced and demanding world, helping children develop this ability gives them a solid foundation for autonomy, creativity, and emotional well-being.

Inspiring Story

Steve Jobs, the genius behind Apple, was known for his ability to anticipate the future. But what few people know is that, as a child, he learned from his father to "see the structure behind things." Planning was a serious game. This example shows how, with the right stimuli, children can learn to visualize steps, predict outcomes, and make better decisions.

In Brazil, educator and playwright Antônio Carlos dos Santos brings innovative contributions through what he calls the Pedagogies of Creativity and Autonomy (PCA). His methods—such as the Puppet Theater Mané Beiçudo (TBMB), Mindset, Action, and Theater (MAT), and Theater Movement (ThM)—encourage children to think creatively and structure their ideas in clear stages. One example: in the TBMB, the child is encouraged to create a puppet theater that requires logical sequencing, objectives, and problem-solving for the characters. This is planning, in a playful and engaging way.

Practical Tip

Before bedtime, invite your child to plan the next day. Together, make a list of three important things: something they need to do, something they want to do, and something they can help with. Small steps build big lessons.

The collection “The Thousand Faces Little Witch collectionteaches you to live better”, also by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, is a powerful educational tool for introducing planning to children. In the first book, titled Planning (click here), the charming little witch shows how planning can make life more fun, productive, and less stressful. In a light-hearted way, she helps the child organize their thinking—whether it’s remembering the toothpaste when brushing teeth or packing their school bag without forgetting lunch.

Curiosity Box

Did you know that the child’s brain is as moldable as clay? Studies show that neural networks associated with planning develop rapidly between the ages of 3 and 7. The more stimulating the activities, the more synapses are formed.

Teaching planning also strengthens a child’s ability to deal with frustration. When a plan doesn’t work, they learn to reassess, adapt, and try again. This cycle builds resilience and expands emotional intelligence.

Motivational Quote

“Planning is the art of keeping your feet on the ground and your head in the clouds, it is dreaming with your eyes open. And every child who learns to dream like this begins to fly.” - Antônio Carlos dos Santos.

This is not about turning childhood into a rigid schedule of goals. It’s about giving meaning and direction to everyday actions. When a child learns to plan, they also learn to respect time, limits, and resources. Above all, they learn that it’s possible to achieve dreams—even if they start small. That’s the beauty of the pedagogy of autonomy: forming individuals who are capable of choosing, evaluating, and starting over.

In the classroom, planning also boosts performance. Activities like building their own study schedule or planning a group project help children internalize concepts like responsibility, collaboration, and time management. According to neuroeducation research, these experiences enhance working memory and activate the prefrontal cortex—the area of the brain responsible for critical thinking.

Practical Tip

Use visual calendars and task boards with colorful stickers. These help children "see time" and feel like protagonists of their own day.

More than preparing children for the job market or university, teaching planning from childhood is an act of care in human formation. Children who learn to plan are more creative, more empathetic, and more confident. They are small human beings with a great potential to make a difference in the world. Why not start today with your child?

Resources

Book Series: “The Thousand Faces Little Witch collection teaches you to live better”
Available at Amazon.com.br. Search for the collection title on the site.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

Follow author Antônio Carlos dos Santos:

• Blog The New York Culture: https://thenewyorkculture.blogspot.com
• Blog Culture and Education: culturaeducacao.blogspot.com
• Popular Theater: teatromanebeicudo.blogspot.com
• Strategic Planning: planejamentoestrategicoquasark.blogspot.com
• Early Childhood Education: letrinhasgigantes.blogspot.com

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

To learn more, click here.

The stage of life: how theater reveals who we are

          Discover how theater can become a mirror of the soul and a tool for self-awareness, emotion, and transformation.
Have you ever considered that you might be playing a role without even realizing it? Theater isn't confined to the stage—it lives in every gesture, decision, and silence of everyday life. In this article, explore how the art of acting can unveil deep truths about who you are and who you can become.

It’s hard to find an art form as profoundly human as theater. Since the earliest civilizations, acting out scenes from life was a way to understand reality, symbolize beliefs, educate, and move others. In the 21st century, theater remains relevant because it touches on a central point of existence: our identity. Neuroscience studies conducted by Stanford University show that when a person plays a character, they activate brain regions linked to empathy, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. In other words, theater literally teaches us to think and feel better.

This is precisely where the concept of the “Theater of the Self” comes in. Each of us plays daily roles: son, mother, leader, friend, student. Theater helps us recognize these layers of performance, and through this awareness, we become more genuine and authentic. The MAT methodology (Mindset, Action, and Theater), created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, proposes exactly this deep dive into the self. By combining behavioral neuroscience, theatrical practice, and critical reflection, this method has been successfully applied in schools, companies, and even therapy sessions.

Inspiring Story

Renata, a marketing executive who struggled with communication blocks and self-esteem issues, participated in a workshop series based on the MAT method. By acting out scenes from her own life and improvising alternative paths, she uncovered deep-seated emotional blocks and discovered new ways of expressing herself. Today, Renata leads with confidence and ease.

But theater is not only a tool for adults. Children and teenagers also greatly benefit from this language. The Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), also developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, is a methodology that blends playfulness, body expression, and symbolic conflict resolution. In practical applications in schools in Ceará and São Paulo, children with attention deficit, autism, and low self-esteem achieved significant progress in communication, empathy, and academic performance.

Practical Tip

You can try a simple theater technique called “emotional mirror.” Stand in front of a mirror and act out an emotion (anger, joy, fear, sadness) using your body and voice. Then reflect: What changed within you? What memory came up? This practice, used in ThM (Theater Movement), is scientifically proven to stimulate emotional neuroplasticity.

Theater also brings invisible aspects to the surface: what we repress, deny, or hide. British playwright Peter Brook once said, “The stage does not accept lies.” True acting requires presence. That’s why theater is often seen as a form of active meditation. Moreover, studies from Oxford University show that regular improvisational practices directly reduce stress and enhance creativity.

Motivational Quote:

“The stage is magnificent, on it you can be everything and everyone. And in the end, comes the great discovery: among all, the most important role is to be yourself" – Antônio Carlos dos Santos.

Beyond therapy, education, and business, theater is also a powerful tool for social resistance and transformation. In his dozens of published plays, Antônio Carlos dos Santos addresses themes such as racism, corruption, spirituality, childhood, and cultural identity. His works now form the foundation of social and educational projects across Brazil. By putting urgent issues on stage, he invites us to take a collective, ethical, and poetic look at life.

Curiosity

In a recent study from Yale University, it was shown that attending a play impacts emotions and values more profoundly than watching a film. The live experience, the presence, the shared silences and laughter create a deep bond between actors and audience.

For all these reasons, theater is more than art: it is science, education, and a mirror. On the stage of life, we are all actors and spectators. By embracing this awareness, we can reinterpret our pain, expand our potential, and live more authentically. After all, as Shakespeare said: “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” But it’s up to us to choose our roles with truth, courage, and love.

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Love in contradiction: lessons from Camões for the modern heart

Discover how the sonnets of Camões reveal the complexities of idealized love—and what they can teach us about our own emotions.

Have you ever felt torn between reason and the heart? Luís de Camões, one of the greatest poets of the Portuguese language, explored this duality in his sonnets, offering timeless insights into the nature of love.

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Luís Vaz de Camões, the renowned 16th-century Portuguese poet, delved deeply into the nuances of love—especially in its idealized form.Influenced by Neoplatonic philosophy and the traditions of courtly love, Camões p ortrayed love as a sublime force, often unattainable, that elevates the human soul. This vision is evident in his sonnets, where love is frequently depicted as a feeling that transcends the physical, seeking a spiritual and eternal connection.

In the sonnet “Love is a fire that burns unseen,” Camões uses antitheses and paradoxes to illustrate the inherent contradictions of love. Phrases like “a wound that hurts yet isn't felt” and “contented discontent” capture the emotional complexity of deep affection. These literary devices not only enhance the beauty of the poem but also reflect the emotional reality experienced by those who love intensely.

The idealization of love in Camões’ work is also evident in his portrayal of the beloved woman. She is often described as an ethereal, almost divine figure, inspiring devotion and reverence. This portrayal aligns with the courtly love tradition, where the lady is placed on a pedestal, an object of admiration and platonic desire. This approach emphasizes the quest for pure, spiritual love—one detached from carnal passion.

Interestingly, this idealization of love and the female figure also reveals the poet’s internal tensions. By elevating love to an almost unattainable ideal, Camões expresses the pain and frustration of not attaining perfect love. This duality between desire and reality is a recurring theme in his work, reflecting an internal struggle between longing for a sublime love and the limitations of human existence.

Fun Fact
Camões is believed to have drawn inspiration from his personal romantic experiences to write his sonnets. One of his muses may have been Dinamene, a young Chinese woman with whom he reportedly fell in love during his travels. Her tragic death is thought to have deeply influenced his reflections on love and loss.

The influence of Camões on literature is undeniable. His sonnets continue to be studied and admired for their emotional depth and technical mastery. His ability to capture the complexities of human love still resonates today, offering profound insights into the emotions that move us.

Practical Tip

When reading Camões' sonnets, try to identify the literary devices he uses, such as antitheses and paradoxes. This will not only deepen your understanding of his work but also allow for a richer appreciation of the emotions he conveys.

Moreover, Camões’ work can be compared to other representations of love in literature and the arts. For example, the book “Love and Hate” by Antônio Carlos dos Santos explores love in a contemporary context, examining tensions between cultures and ideologies. This comparison highlights how love, in its many forms, remains a central theme in artistic expression.

Inspirational Quote
“Love is a fire that burns unseen, a wound that hurts and is not felt.” – Luís de Camões

In short, Camões’ sonnets offer a rich and multifaceted exploration of idealized love. They invite us to reflect on our own emotional experiences, acknowledging both the joy and the sorrow that love can bring. By immersing ourselves in his poetry, we are reminded of love’s beauty and complexity—a force that, despite its contradictions, continues to be one of the most powerful elements of human experience. 

Access the books by Antônio Carlos dos Santos on amazon.com or amazon.com.br

Click here.

https://www.amazon.com/author/antoniosantos

To learn more, click here.

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