Welcome to The Practical Brain

Where neuroscience meets real-life parenting.

At The Practical Brain, we provide science-based, emotionally intelligent, and values-driven support for parents and educators who want to better understand and guide the children in their lives.

Founded by Ana Salazar, child behavior specialist and certified parenting coach, The Practical Brain bridges the gap between cutting-edge brain research and day-to-day parenting challenges. Whether you’re navigating emotional outbursts, attention difficulties, or school-related behavior concerns, you’ll find practical, proven strategies here to bring greater calm, clarity, and connection into your home or classroom.

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About Ana

Ana lives in the Midwest region of the United States, where she works closely with families and educators. She offers science-based strategies rooted in neuropsychology and conscious discipline, helping children thrive through emotional regulation, structure, and connection.

Resources for every stage of your parenting or educational journey

Online courses

Take a self-guided journey with weekly interactive lessons.

Take a course

1-on-1 coaching

Dive deep into your development with personalized guidance.

Schedule a 1:1 call

Ebooks & Resources

Learn actionable skills you can easily use to improve your daily life.

Resources

Before working with Ana, I felt like I was walking on eggshells every day. I was reacting more than responding and constantly second-guessing myself. In just a few sessions, Ana helped me understand my child’s behavior through a completely different lens, one rooted in neuroscience, not shame. Now, I have scripts that work, a calm routine, and most importantly, I feel confident as a parent again.

— Stephanie M., mom of 3, New Jersey

— Carmen L., Catholic parent of two, Indiana

Ana’s coaching gave me the permission and tools to parent from a place of grace and clarity, not guilt and frustration. As a Catholic mom, it meant so much to have someone who respects my values and still brings in real science and practical strategies. I can now set boundaries with love, stay calm through meltdowns, and connect with my child in ways I never knew were possible.

I can’t begin to express the deep transformation that occurred in every aspect of my life

Rebecca Night

As both a teacher and a mom, I felt stuck, what worked in the classroom wasn’t working at home. Ana helped me bridge the gap and create a calm structure that serves both my students and my own child. Her mix of compassion, expertise, and actionable tools is unmatched. Every session felt like a breath of fresh air and left me feeling hopeful and equipped.

— Vanessa T., 4th grade teacher and mom, Indiana

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