Amy,
Dr. Dennison states “Movement is the Door to Learning”. This concept is supported by current research, which demonstrates the link between movement and getting information into long-term memory. I often observe students in classrooms creating their own movement opportunities if they are not provided in the normal class routines. Students will drop books, sharpen a pencil, lean back in their chair, wiggle in their seat or tap their feet as a way to keep them selves alert. The general movement rule to remember is that students will need to move every one minute per year of age. This means younger students need to move more often for example a 7 year old will need to move every 7 minutes for optimum brain functioning, and adults can only sit for 20 minutes before their brain begins to shut down. When we force our bodies to stay still our brains actually slow down. I call this the “screen saver effect”, because just like our computers need movement of the mouse to stay active, our brains need movement of our bodies to function at their highest level.

In the classroom have students stand often, take stretch breaks and incorporate Brain Gym exercises throughout the day. P.A.C.E. movements, which I have explained previously, are always helpful as is the Energizer, Neck Rolls, Arm Activation, and the Elephant. Remember to keep their brains engaged in learning move often.

Susan Owens MS OTR