Physical Activity and Academic Performance

How does physical activity influence academic performance?

Leslee Scheuer and Debby Mitchell writing for SportaPolis review several research projects analyzing the effect of physical activity and academic performance. California’s Statewide Study of Physically Fit Kids, and Dwyer’s study of academic performance and fitness in children in Australia is briefly mentioned.

The conclusion stated in this article: “Enhanced brain function, energy levels, body builds/perceptions, self-esteem, and behavior have been attributed to physical activity and to improved academic performance. One cannot make direct correlations from the information offered. However it is obvious that many positive relationships have been suggested. Perhaps instead of decreasing physical activity, school officials should consider developing enhanced physical activity programs.”

Steady Beat Improves Academics

Reading and Mathematics are improved with steady beat competence

Phyllis Weikart’s article cites research supporting the use of steady rhythm while moving, talking, singing, and reciting poetry as a way to build reading, vocabulary, math and physical coordination. Children’s behavior, concentration, and understanding of body in space were all positively impacted. Many suggestions are given to parents and teachers wanting to help their children explore and develop their steady beat.

‘Poor rhythm is at the heart of Dyslexia’, an article by BBC news, cited research from the University College of London, finding dyslexic children were less able to detect beats in sounds with a strong rhythm.

Recess is Really Important!

Study shows the importance of recess during the school day

Linda Ebbing writing for the Middletown Journal cites how vitally important recess is for elementary students. Burned off energy, better behavior, improved concentration, improved motor skills, enhanced social-emotional skills, and better attention are a few benefits mentioned.

Recess breaks as short as ten minutes improve children’s learning efficiency according to Catherine L. Ramstetter who conducted a comprehensive review of literature regarding recess throughout the United States.

Many schools have dropped recess to devote more time preparing for tests to meet NCLB mandates. If that is true in your school district, go to the school board and insist on Daily Physical Education and morning and afternoon recess! Read the Peaceful Playgrounds blog for more recess-related information.

Neurodevelopment Intro

Brain stem, midbrain and cortex development and problems

Toni Hager, originator of Kids Can Learn website, presents a thorough overview of brain and central nervous system, identifying stages of development, and pinpointing what learning and behavior problems result when the spinal cord, brain stem, midbrain and cortex fail to properly develop. Visual, auditory, tactile, and proprioceptive competence, as well as mobility, manual, and language proficiency are affected.

What is often perceived as learning and behavioral problems in school have neurological roots that can often be remedied naturally, targeting the source of dysfunction.

ADHD – Medicate? Remediate?

Focus on root causes -- then use body-brain exercises to resolve problems

Rather than treating ADHD symptoms, neurodevelopmental specialists like Toni Hager, http://www.kidscanlearn.net/kids.htm identify, address and remedy parts of the sensory motor system causing the learning and behavioral problems. The body/brain strengthens itself using specific exercises that mature the visual, auditory, tactile, motor, vestibular, cerebellar or other systems causing the challenges.

STNR, ATNR, TLR Learning Activities

Physical Activities for Improving Children’s Learning and Behavior

Billye Ann Cheatum and Allison A. Hammond have coauthored a highly useful book for parents and teachers interested in helping their children be more successful in school. 99 physical activities are offered to help reduce the effects of sensory motor problems. Primitive reflexes are addressed with many fun activities designed to enhance the visual, auditory and kinesthetic systems called upon to read, write and relate well to others Read sections of Physical Activities for Improving Children’s Learning and Behavior. This book is one of my favorites!

Jeff Haebig

Upcoming BOOGIE Blogs

BOOGIE Blogs you can look forward to next week!

1/16 NCLB Developmentally
1/17 Engaging ‘Tweens and Teens
1/18 Learning and Behavior Problems Solved
1/19 Motor Planning and Sequencing
1/20 Heart-Brain Connection – Video
1/21 Vestibular System is Key to Learning
1/22 Physical Education and the Brain

Wellness Quest offers free DAILY Health Care-toons, wellness challenges, health benefits, inspirational quotes and jokes.