HOW EXERCISE CAN IMPROVE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE FOR YOUR CHILD
Why exercise impacts academics There are many reasons for the connection between physical activity and academic performance, beginning with its impact on the development of the brain. Researcher Charles Basch from Columbia University outlined how exercise affects executive functioning of the brain: • “[Increased] brain-derived neurotrophins that support neuronal differentiation and survival in the developing brain.” Neurotrophins help the survival of neurons in areas responsible for learning, memory and higher thinking; • Increased flow of oxygen to the brain; • Increased brain neurotransmitters. Three-pronged approach Arguably, there are more ways to improve a child’s physical activity level than the three suggestions listed here. However, the most common approaches tackle three main areas: school life, home life and professional intervention. The CDC recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. For the most benefits, the majority of exercise should be aerobic, with some time spent doing muscle- strengthening exercises and some time spent doing bone-strengthening activities. Here are some ways to fit that in:
School life With an increased focus on standardized testing and Common Core standards, there has been an unfortunate decline in physical fitness offerings in school. This is detrimental to children’s physical and mental health, as well as academic achievement. One way to improve this is to increase the time spent in P.E. classes. Before and after-school activities should also be offered, and teachers of academic courses can incorporate physical coordination into lesson plans. Home life Families can model healthy behaviors by participating in sports together, going on walks, partaking in physical activities and generally spending time away from the couch. Children’s first teacher is at home, and this is often where healthy choices are either encouraged or discouraged. Professional intervention Many familiesstruggle toknow thebestexercise regimen for their child (or themselves). As such, they turn to professionals, such as pediatric physical therapists, to develop a plan. Physical therapists can help people become active while reducing unnecessary pain. They can guide students through physical movements and teach safety measures important to success.
Often, they will measure a child’s current fitness level to develop a plan appropriate to the child’s needs. If you’re seeking professional insight and want help encouraging your child to become more physically active, consult with a pediatric physical therapist for guidance. centerforpediatrictherapies.com
Phyllis Behrer, MHS, CCC-SLP SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Staff Spotlight
Phyllis Behrer is a Speech-Language Pathologist at the Center for Pediatric Therapies. Her passion is language therapy for early intervention and children with autism. Phyllis is certified in the Beckman Oral-Motor Protocol. Recent continuing education topics include Sensory Oral Sequential approach to feeding; Kaufman Early Intervention Program: Children with Apraxia of Speech; and Picture Exchange Communication System. Phyllis holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Delaware and a Bachelor of Health Science from Governors State University in Illinois. Phyllis earned a Master of Health Science from Governors State University, where she was awarded the Lee Edward Travis award for outstanding graduate student in 1999. Originally from Long Island, New York, Phyllis now lives on Smith Mountain Lake in Moneta, Virginia. Outside of work, Phyllis enjoys reading, cross stitching, writing, boating, swimming, and spending time with her husband of 30 years and their three grown daughters.
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