All About Kids The Newsletter About Taking Care of the Ones That Matter Most
Have You Noticed a Decline in Your Child’s Grades? GET YOUR CHILD READY FOR TESTING
There is increasing evidence that there’s a positive link between physical activity and academic performance. According to Active Living Research, even children who played physically active video games experienced improvements in math. There are several physical activities that can prepare a child for testing. 1. Use the Entire Body Simple activities like Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes is a way for younger children to get moving while engaging the entire body. Playing Simon Says before an academic activity is also a fun game to make sure kids move in a variety of ways. If there’s room, activity is a great option. Headstands and cartwheels are fantastic ways to stretch muscles and use the entire body. 2. Include Adaptations Action for Healthy Kids states that activities should be made as inclusive as possible for children with special needs. For kids who are mobility challenged, activities can be adapted so they can do them in a sitting position. If it’s applicable, pair children with a partner who can guide them through an activity. 3. Make it Educational There are several types of interactive video games that can be used so kids can learn while they’re moving. Dance video games provide a fun way to learn songs while incorporating physical movements. When learning math, draw numbers on the ground with chalk or tape and have kids jump on the right answer. 4. Make it Competitive Kids love games like kickball, softball, and tag. If there’s a large enough area to play competitive games, this is an easy way to get kids moving. Scavenger hunts, inside or out, can keep kids of all ages both physically and mentally active. Simple obstacle courses can be set up in a room or outside.Childrencanbeon teamsor raceagainst theirown individual times.
5. Keep it Short No matter what type of activities a child engages in, it’s a good idea for exercise not to last longer than 20 or 30 minutes. This is enough time for children to get their heart rates up and increase circulation without making them too tired to concentrate on academics later. There’s little doubt that exercise is good for the brain on both a physical and mental level. Getting kids involved in a variety of physical activities will not only improve their health but boost their academic performance.
https://activelivingresearch.org/sites/default/files/ALR_Brief_ActiveEducation_Jan2015.pdf http://www.actionforhealthykids.org/tools-for-schools/1252-brain-breaks-instant-recess-and-energizers
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