It is very exciting for me to see an increasing amount of research and wide ranging information on the benefits of play for healthy brain development. One area in particular that is demonstrated to make an extremely positive effect on growing brains is, movement and physical activity. The thing that seems to be occurring however, is that while the awareness of the value of movement and play is becoming better understood, the amount of time children play is not increasing.
The printable for this week explains the benefits of physical activity and movement. When children move, various brain areas are activated and essential connections for a wide range of abilities are created. As a result of repeating these activities the connections become stronger. There is a saying, "Brain cells that fire together...wire together." The opportunity for this to occur is exactly what play and movement activities provide.
This past weekend I had the wonderful pleasure to sit down and talk with Gill Connell while here from New Zealand. Gill is the founder of MOVING SMART, and co-author of MOVING TO LEARN. In one of her extremely valuable blog posts she writes,
"The
most powerful tool for fostering the growth and development of neural
connections in your child’s brain is physical movement. "
Printable #9
Movement Activities Advance Brain Growth and Learning!
Too often it is thought that the best way to help children develop and learn is to provide structured activities that require children to sit and not fidget. However, research demonstrates that play and physical activities contributes to the development of better language and social skills. Evidence also reveals that movement is effective in the reduction of stress and leads to greater ability to pay attention.
So, it is essential that all adults ensure that children have the opportunity to use their energy in the ways that comes very naturally! The brains of children say "to learn best, we NEED to move and play!"
Your brain will also benefit,
so join in and have lots of fun!!
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3 Responses to “BRAIN INSIGHTS TO SHARE: Movement Activities Advance Brain Growth and Learning”
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Exercise is important for physical health and also important for mental health. Exercising on a consistent schedule is not only important for you, but also for your relationships.
November 14, 2012 at 1:54 PMLove moving and play. Last night I went to a literacy meeting at the school and they were saying about playing with words and writing. I loved the things they were mnetioning. We dont have to sit at a desk to learn. It can be fun
November 15, 2012 at 7:24 AMYES! YES! YES! ~ It is so wonderful to hear that Naomi! Thank you for sharing. Learning SHOULD be fun! Being interactive and moving is the way the brain learns best.
November 15, 2012 at 7:39 AMIt is always terrific to learn about programs and schools that understand this and provide learning in this optimal way!!
Dr. Boorstein you have also added a valuable point. When the brain gets the opportunity to move and enjoy physical activity moods are improved. This all contributes to better social interactions and overall mental health!
Soon EVERYONE will realize all that is best for children (and adult) brains!!
Let's keep sharing this information everywhere!
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