Healthier Students are Better Learners

A Missing Link in School Reforms
To Close the Achievement Gap

Charles Basch from the Teachers College, Columbia University offers a comprehensive essay on effective School Health programs. Topics including vision, asthma, teen pregnancy, aggression and violence, physical activity, breakfast, and inattention and hyperactivity are addressed. Thanks to Charles for offering this Research Initiative of the Campaign for Educational Equity.

Bottom line – “Healthier Students are Better Learners!”

One Amazing Brain Site!

What an absolute delight finding this body/brain-based website!

Christopher McPeck has amassed hundreds of articles and links related to body and brain fitness. What a phenomenal contribution Christopher is making. One of his passions is sharing the addictive nature of the Internet and Television. Take a moment to scan the comprehensive nature of this super insightful website including topics focused on the Brain, Arousal, Hearing, Indoor Air Pollution, Muscle Tension, Posture, Sensory Processing, Sleep, Vision, Research Topics, and Other Suggestions.

Eye! Eye! Learning Success!

Strengthen vison needed to read, write, learn!

View the All About Vision website for many insightful ideas about vision, including eye nutrition. One glaring omission occurs on their page citing how important eye exams are for children, relating various aspects of vision needed for learning – but failing to offer exercises that can be used to strengthen visual processing. Such exercises can be viewed on Eye Can Learn website! Seems strange that children’s eye exams in school do not measure these visual skills, and little thought is given about strengthening vision to help students better focus as they read, write, calculate, draw, catch a ball, etc. People talk about No Child Left Behind, but can't see that many children are left behind because of visual challenges. Let's change their view!

Vestibular System is Key to Learning

Reading, writing, speech, attention and memory are impacted

http://www.vestibular.org/vestibular-disorders/symptoms.php shows possible symptoms of Vestibular Disorders. This sixth sense helps regulate vision, hearing, balance and movement. Many students challenged by school have weak vestibular systems resulting from insufficient childhood play, rolling, swinging, spinning, and other robust stop and go activities. More than ever, playgrounds with swings, merry-go-rounds, slides, teeter-totters are needed. Unfortunately these are disappearing -- as is Physical Education. What a shame!

Thanks to VEDA, http://www.vestibular.org/ Vestibular Disorders Association the public is informed. Hopefully people will take action, putting a spin on the importance of body brain exercise leading to academic success.

Jeff Haebig