Move to Learn

Movement itself is key to learning retention. Research has shown that frequent, varied exercise throughout the day can increase the number of glia in the brain. These are the cells surrounding neurons – and Einstein’s brain was found to have twice as many glia as an average brain.

Before beginning a new mental activity, it’s important to have both sides of the brain working at the same time. To help this occur, do some cross lateral exercises with your child. These exercises are easy to do while home schooling!

Cross laterals are simple movements in which one side of the body crosses over the other and returns back to its normal position. An example would be if you touched your right hand to your left heel and then your left hand to your right heel. (Do 10-15 repetitions.)

More examples: cross one arm to the other side of the body (and reverse) as if “swimming”, touch right hand to left shoulder and reverse, right hand to left knee and reverse, etc. My third graders loved to create their own cross over exercises –some were pretty creative!

Resources
The following books give more info about moving to learn. Brain Gym is a must read! I use it with my students and it works!

Brain Gym (Teachers Edition)
Smart Moves: Why Learning Is Not All in Your Head

More Moves
• David Clark (Ohio State University College of Medicine) found that people are more alert and focused after spinning. (one minute of spinning with eyes closed, Ring around the Rosie)

• Even standing up, according to Dr. Max Vercruyssen of University of Southern California, increases the heartbeat and sends more blood to the brain. The greater oxygen input allows greater focus and attentiveness. No need to sit at a desk all day!

• Some children benefit by having the option of gently bouncing as they sit. Large bouncy exercise balls can be used as chairs. The gentle movement keeps some learners more attentive. I found this technique helpful with students who exhibited ADHD type behavior.

• Another helpful strategy related to maintaining focus is using “fidgets”. These items are held in the hand while working. Your child could use miniature slinkies, rubber bands, mini koosh balls, smooth rocks, marbles, pipe cleaners, small bean bags, balloons filled with flour or sand…. My students were actually better able to pay attention to lessons when using fidgets!

• Short periods of “rough and tumble” play or heavy lifting/pushing before learning new concepts promotes strong attention during lessons. Try taking a break during learning and pushing hard against the wall or doing pushups. You’d be amazed at how much more focused you are when you go back to “sit down” work.

• Make sure you schedule plenty of active time between lessons. Play makes learning easier.

Brain Breaks

Music to Learn By

Teaching Languages

TV and Your Child's Brain

Problem Solving Activities