Brain Gym  A program of physical movements that enhance learning and performance in all areas through whole brain learning in the field of Educational Kinesiology (Edu-K)  Developed by Dr. Paul Dennison and Gail E. Dennison beginning with research in the 1970’s

Brain Gym  Educational Kinesiology Learning through movement  Used in 80 countries in: Public and private schools Corporate programs Performing arts Athletic training programs

Brain Gym  Includes targeted activities that integrate body and mind to bring about rapid and dramatic improvements in: Concentration Memory Reading Writing Organizing Listening Physical coordination

Three premises of Brain Gym  Learning in a natural, joyous activity that continues throughout life  Learning blocks are the inability to move through the stress and uncertainty of a new task  We are all “learning blocked” to the extent that we have learned not to move

Brain Gym Helps Children, Adults, and Seniors  Learn anything faster and more easily  Perform better at sports  Be more focused and organized  Start and finish projects with ease  Overcome learning challenges  Reach new levels of excellence

Research  Carroll (1987). Pre-experimental design research with no control group indicates improvements in tests performance on beginning reading skills 10 weeks of Brain Gym use for 15 min./day by first graders

Research (cont.)  G. Dennison and Lehman (1996) Qualitative and descriptive research Resulted in observable improvements in 15 preschoolers in the areas of drawing, reading and writing.

When to use Brain Gym  Beginning of the day  Transition times (esp. between active and inactive lessons)  Before lunch  Before rest time  At the end of the day

Adaptations of the concept  Use a selection from the Brain Gym CD  Use alternative music and do the Brain Gym exercises  Embed movements that cross the midline into routines and lessons throughout the day.  Use action songs with movements that cross the midline

Action Music Alternatives  Macarena Months by Dr. Jean  Five Little Monkeys by Dr. Jean  Five Green and Speckled Frogs by C. J.  Touch by Hap Palmer  Shake Something by Hap Palmer

Resources Anderson, N., & Meiser, F. (2007). The smart brain train: How to keep your brain healthy and wise. Sheffield, MA: Safe Goods. Carroll, D. H. (1988). Positive activities. Brain Gym Magazine, 2 (2). CJ. (1993). Fundamentals. Hilmar, CA: Suit A Records. Dennison, G. E. (2001). Brain gym for preschoolsers in a Headstart program. Brain Gym Journal, 1 & 2. Dennison, P. E., & Dennison, G. E. (1994). Brain gym: Teacher’s edition revised. Ventura, CA: ED=du-Kinesthtics, Inc. Feldman, J. (1998). Dr. Jean and friends. Tampa, FL: Progressive Music. Palmer, H. (2001). Getting to know myself. Freeport, NY: Educational Activities, Inc. Tessarose Productions (n.d.). Brain gym: Music for encouraging brain gym movements. Christchurch, NZ: Tessarose Productions.