Exercise Brain Growth

Move Your Feet -- Grow New Neurons in Your Hippocampus

Brenda Patoine’s article on the DANA.org website cites research suggesting neurogenesis (new brain cell growth) resulting from exercise (e.g. hour a day, four times a week). MRI scans show growth takes place in the dentate gyrus within the hippocampus, an essential part of our memory system. The research suggests that exercise helps protect your brain throughout your lifetime. BDNF, is a major nerve growth factor involved in new brain cell growth and connectivity according to Carl Cotman, neurobiologist at the University of California, Irvine.

Enhance Fine Motor Activity

Improve Hand Writing and Other Hand Functions Using these Activities

Children with Challenges website offers many engaging fine motor activities designed to help people control hand function. This wonderful informational website points out the importance of posture, sensory processing, trunk and shoulder stability, and visual motor and visual perceptual skills involved with handwriting. Once again, the body is central to improving academic performance skills.