Jocelyn Spurlock

Children are not getting their required 60 minutes a day of exercise. This is because recess and physical education are being cut more and more each year for other academic purposes. No Child Left Behind Act has caused many schools to focus mainly on preparation for Standardized Testing leaving kids desk- bound all day.

Movement is a means of learning Known as Kinetic learning Children are born with a natural urge to move but are taught to sit still and be quiet in most classrooms I believe that Academics plus movement can enhance learning.

Space doesn’t always have to be an Issue! Active Learning can occur within the confines of a small classroom area. All you need is a carpet square or a little space around the student’s desk. Having access to a gym or an open space is unnecessary for most movement activities.

Emotions and Physical Health Too many kids suffer from anxiety and stress. Regular physical activity can reduce depression, ADD, ADHD, and improve one’s mood. As Elle said on Legally Blonde “ Exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands.”

Too Much TV is bad! ABC News reported that kids are spending almost 5 hours a day on the computer, playing video games or watching TV. Sitting in front these items for hours negatively affects the child’s behavior and ability to learn.

Brain Health Movement activity increases blood circulation and the oxygen and glucose that reach the brain. Simply standing up can clear the head and allow the students to refocus. Of all the effects on cognition, movement proves the strongest when used as a tool for learning.

Physical Activity Can Improve the Child’s Social Skills Physical Activity can be used to develop positive social skills because they are often conducted in a relaxed and informal manner Students learn to depend upon one another during these types of Activities.

Physical Activity Promotes Positive Self-Image Physical Activity enhances self-esteem and self confidence. Physical Activity also develops the whole person and promotes sportsmanship and teamwork. Teaches Self Discipline

What Teachers Can Do Select well-designed activities that integrate other subjects. Do not pick an activity just because it is fun. Model the desired movement that you want the child to achieve. Provide appropriate structure and feedback.

Rediscover the Joy of Teaching Teachers who incorporate movement in their classroom can rediscover the joy of teaching because physical activity allows them to relax and just have fun with their students. So it’s time to get active and to put movement back into the classroom!!

Works Cited Academotion-100 Action Packed Activities for Teachers of Young Children by Professor Blair Dean.