🧠 Nervous System: Brain, Spinal Cord, and Nerves
Learn the parts, how neurons send signals, and what the nervous system controls in kids.
What Is the Nervous System?
The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and a complex network of nerves that send messages back and forth between the brain and the body. It controls everything from thoughts and movement to automatic functions like breathing and heartbeat.
What Are the Parts of the Nervous System?
🧠 Central Nervous System (CNS)
- • Brain: controls thoughts, emotions, memory, and decisions
- • Spinal cord: main pathway sending messages to and from the brain
- • Protected by skull, vertebrae, and cerebrospinal fluid
🔌 Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
- • Nerves branching to every organ and body part
- • Sensory nerves bring information to the brain
- • Motor nerves carry instructions to muscles and glands
How Does the Nervous System Work?
The nervous system uses tiny cells called neurons to send messages. Sensory neurons carry information from the eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin to the brain. Motor neurons carry messages from the brain to the body to make muscles move. Billions of neurons connect in networks that let us think, learn, move, and feel.
Sensory input to brain
Processing and decision-making
Motor output to body
What Does the Nervous System Control?
Thoughts, memory, and learning
Senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell
Voluntary movements like walking and talking
Automatic functions like heartbeat and breathing
Emotions and feelings
Balance and coordination
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the CNS and PNS?
The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord. The PNS includes all the nerves that branch out through the body.
❓ What do neurons do?
Neurons send and receive signals. Sensory neurons bring information in; motor neurons send commands out.
❓ What does the nervous system control?
Thinking, learning, senses, movement, emotions, and automatic functions like heart rate and breathing.
📝Key Takeaways About the Nervous System
- ✓The nervous system connects brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
- ✓Neurons send messages to and from the brain and body.
- ✓It controls movement, senses, emotions, and vital functions.
⚠️Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page about the nervous system, brain, spinal cord, nerves, and related topics is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is unique, and neurological concerns require individual assessment by qualified healthcare professionals.
Always consult with your child's pediatrician, neurologist, or qualified healthcare provider if you have concerns about your child's development, movement, behavior, or any related symptoms. For medical emergencies, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room immediately. Content compiled from trusted pediatric health references and medically reviewed educational resources.