JustbFit.org Classroom Connections Blog

Movement Matters for the Brain

2011-06-20T07:47:00.003-06:00

Imagination Soup offers a variety of useful, interesting information for parents, and practical, creative ideas to try with your kids! I was honored to share a guest blog concerning how exercise affects the brain, as well as ideas for families to stay active this summer! Check it out HERE.

Spelling Baseball

2011-01-24T12:47:00.002-07:00

Hey, teachers...are you looking for a fun way to help your students learn their spelling words? Try this game out!

Split the class into two teams. Designate where the "bases" are in your classroom. Students take turns spelling words; if they are correct, they advance a base. If they misspell the word, they go to the back of the line. See how many home runs can be scored in two minutes, then switch teams.

Goodbye, Hello

2010-11-29T13:52:00.004-07:00

Pair up your students, and instruct them to go to a part of the room where they can move around.

Explain that when you say, "hello", partners should walk toward each other. When you say, "goodbye", partners should walk away from each other. Switch back and forth often to keep the kids moving.

*If you have a good amount of space, students can run toward or away from each other.

Rope Rhythm

2010-09-09T09:45:00.003-06:00

You will need a long rope for this activity.

Form two teams, and have each team line up on opposite ends of the rope, facing each other (like they are about to play tug-of-war). Instead, instruct students to work in a seesawing motion rhythm. Once they get it, have them speed the motion up, then slow it down.

*If you have a large class or limited space, you may want to split the group up into four teams with two ropes.

Summer Boot Camp Class Ideas For Kids

2010-07-06T13:41:00.002-06:00

In my Boot Camp for Kids class today we had so much fun with very minimal equipment (swimming noodles, frisbees and balls)! We jogged to the park, pushing swimming noodles over head, did some light stretching, then set up this obstacle course:

1. Jump side to side over two swimming noodles placed end-to-end.
2. Throw a frisbee toward "goal" (ours happened to be a tree), pick it up,
throw it, etc...until it reaches the destination.
3. Weave through trees.
5. Run up and down the stairs two times.
6. Walk over the big rocks.
7. Throw a ball through the swing handles. (If it doesn't make it, they had
to retrieve it and try again until they made it.)
8. Swing 20 times.
9. Complete 20 push-ups.
10. Run back to the start and give me a High 5!

We finished our time by doing some light strength training with therabands, then worked the core and had a nice long stretch while talking about the importance of exercise for our heart, lungs, skin, brain, etc...

The kids had a blast while getting their hearts pumping!!! It doesn't take a lot of "stuff" to get a great workout...just a little creativity and a willingness to try!

10 Cardio Moves

2010-05-12T10:34:00.003-06:00

Cardiovascular activity pumps blood and oxygen throughout the body, keeping minds focused and bodies healthy! Here are 10 different cardio moves to try today with your students and/or children. These are great brain breaks in the classroom, or at home!

1. Wide knee jog
2. Cross Country Ski
3. Jumping Jacks
4. Front Kicks
5. Back Kicks
6. Football Run
7. Rocking Horse
8. Can-Can
9. Downhill Ski
10. Straight Jumps

Quick Brain Break Idea: Figure Eights

2010-04-07T10:06:00.003-06:00

This is a brain break that has been linked to improved reading and writing skills because it crosses the mid-line and "connects" both sides of the brain.

LEVEL 1: Draw a figure 8 (infinity sign) on a sheet of paper, continually tracing and re-tracing the design.
LEVEL 2: Use your finger on top of your desk to do the same thing, just making the shape bigger, using the whole desktop.
LEVEL 3: Stand up, using your whole arm to trace the design through the air. Switch arms.
LEVEL 4: Use both arms, letting your upper body move with the motion as your arms trace the shape in front of you.

A Lazy Parent's Lament

2010-03-22T12:57:00.004-06:00

This past Saturday I found myself completely lifeless on the couch while my kids entered into their third episode of "Sonny With A Chance" on Netflix. Every ounce of my body knew that I needed to get up and follow through on my promise to take them sledding. Every ounce of my body also desperately wanted to remain in a horizontal position on the couch under my favorite fleece blanket. I was exhausted. The thought of bundling up and going out in the cold was daunting.

I kept trying to unsuccessfully motivate myself, feeling like a complete hypocrite. How many teachers, parents and kids have I shared the extensive research with and challenged to incorporate exercise into every day? What about my own kids? They get the 'leftover mom' who is too tired to do anything active with them?

The kids finally meandered downstairs, not completely sure they wanted to go sledding, either. We tried to figure out what other active stuff we could do inside, but nothing sounded good. We were all feeling pretty unmotivated, but finally decided on sledding. I peeled myself off the couch, we all bundled, got the sleds, and walked out into the most beautiful Colorado day. It was in the 50's, the sun was shining, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time outside, throwing snowballs, creating new sled runs, and most importantly, connecting with each other. My daughter is going through some tough stuff with friends. My son is dealing with some difficult health stuff right now. We talked as we walked. We laughed at ourselves and at each other. We drank hot chocolate together when we got home. It was good. It was really good.

We all have days when the energy is low, and when we truly do need to rest. But I think about what the day would have looked like if I would have remained on the couch and the kids in front of the computer screen. We would not have made this lasting memory. The day would have consisted of doing chores, then tuning the world out. I guess what I want to say is this:

1. I get it. I really do. You're tired. You don't want to. The kids don't want to. It's easier to let them off the hook. It's easier to let ourselves off the hook.

2. It takes real dedication and commitment to your health, and to your kid's health to incorporate activity into each day. Your willingness to make it an important part of your family life is the springboard for your kids to get excited about it, too. It's up to you to make time, and to make it happen.

So, tear yourself away from the computer, tv, couch...whatever it is. Make a pact with your family to experience life together while staying healthy for and with each other. It will not be easy. It is definitely the road less traveled. But, there is no question that it will be worth it!!!

Quick Brain Break Idea: Stomp Stomp Clap

2010-03-08T11:07:00.004-07:00

If you sense your students are in need of a break, start stomping 2x's and clapping once (think, "We Will Rock You" by Queen for the pattern) invite students to stand and join you. When everyone is participating, add 4 jumps at the end of each stomp/clap segment.

*Stomp, stomp clap 2x's
*Jump 1-2-3-4
*Repeat

When you are getting ready to transition back into focused work, give them a "two more times!" cue.

Brain Break Idea: Heart Smart

2010-02-04T07:38:00.006-07:00

With all the buzz about hearts in February, it is the perfect time to get kids thinking and learning about the fascinating way their heart works! This activity could be used as a quick brain break in the classroom, or for a Valentine's Party activity!

1. Have kids do 30 seconds of a cardiovascular activity. Some ideas are: jumping jacks, jumping side to side, jumping front to back, speed skating, jogging in place, lunges, jump rope, football, cross-country skiing, etc...

2. After each cardio burst, tell the class a heart fact, and have them repeat it. For some interesting heart facts, click here.

kids love to learn about how their bodies work, and like to feel control over their health...this is a great chance to help them get to know and appreciate their heart better!

Quick Brain Break Idea: Playin' Hoops

2010-01-27T09:12:00.003-07:00

Have students pretend they are holding a basketball. Here are some fun things to do in this 'virtual' game.

*Jog in place, 'dribbling' the ball (switch hands)
*'Shoot' the ball 10x's
*'Pass' the ball side to side 10x's

If you have more time and space allows, the students could jog and dribble around the room, jog between desks, then shoot at the end of the row, and shuffle the length of the room (like they are playing defense). The main goal here is to get the heart pumping so it sends extra oxygen and blood to the brain. The bonus is the exercise they are getting for better health!!!

Brain Break Idea: Body Nod

2010-01-20T13:01:00.003-07:00

This is a fun way to get kids moving in the classroom to refuel their brains and bodies with endorphins!

1. Have students stand up by their desks.
2. Tell students that you are going to ask them yes or no (or true or false) questions. They are to bend at their waist forward and back to answer yes, or side to side to answer no.
3. You can ask them academic questions, relating to a book, or true or false questions about people, locations or definitions you are studying. If you want to make it strictly fun, ask yes or no questions about food, activities, families, etc... You can also make 'statements' that they can either agree or disagree with using their body nod.

Brain Break Idea: Surfin' The Waves

2010-01-05T18:36:00.004-07:00

I stole this one from the 1-3 Grade Classroom Energizers DVD. The country's had enough snow and cold to last us for awhile, so I figured the thought of being on a beach somewhere might be a nice thought!

Tell kids to imagine they are running on a beach, then through the water (slower) with a surfboard under their arm. Have them pretend to jump onto their surfboard, and ride the waves by bending their knees and slowly 'bouncing' with the water.

20 Fun Ideas to Keep Your Family Active!

2009-12-20T11:39:00.005-07:00

Here are a few ideas to keep your family moving while school's out!

1. Take the dog for a walk
2. Go rollerblading
3. Take a bike ride
4. Go for a hike
5. Go snowshoeing
6. Go skiing
7. Play catch
8. Grab the neighbors for an impromptu touch football game/baseball game
9. Go swimming
10. Shoot some hoops
11. Play racquetball
12. Play tennis
13. Run
14. Shovel snow/rake leaves
15. Play at the park
16. Go ice skating
17. Walk around at the zoo
18. Go roller skating
19. Make a snowman
20. Go sledding

Your example is SO important in teaching kids how fun and important exercise is for them now and for their whole lives. You'll find that your relationship will strengthen with your kids when you take yourselves out of your regular routines and take the time to talk while you play together. Most of all...HAVE FUN!!! That's what it's all about!

Quick Brain Break Idea: Freeze!

2009-11-08T15:40:00.003-07:00

Play an upbeat song, instructing your students to dance while the music is playing, then FREEZE when the music stops. If you want to make this an educational activity, you can call out a math problem or spelling word when they are frozen, then resume the music and continue dancing! Repeat as many times as you like.

Quick Brain Break Idea: Completion Jacks

2009-10-27T06:55:00.002-06:00

After a certain goal is met (math problem solved, cross-word found, paragraph or page of reading done, etc...) have students stand up and do five jumping jacks.

This can be a fun way to release energy while keeping students on track. Coming back to their desk to complete the next task helps keep students working toward their goal while meeting their movement needs, releasing endorphins and creating new neuron connections!

Quick Brain Break Idea: Ski the Mountain

2009-10-12T09:54:00.005-06:00

In honor of some of the ski slopes opening for the season, here's a fun ski drill to do with your students:

Ski Jumps - Keep feet together, jumping from side to side.

Gliding Squat - Feet shoulder-width apart, sit down into a squat, tuck poles under arms to 'glide' down the mountain. Call out, "JUMP!" every few seconds, then have them resume the squat position.

Balance Stunt - Have them stand on one foot, keeping their 'ski' up in the air. Switch feet.

Quick Brain Break Idea: Back Spell

2009-09-28T14:16:00.002-06:00

Have children choose partners. One partner begins slowly tracing letters from a current spelling word on their partner's back. When the partner guesses correctly, they switch.

Quick Brain Break Idea: Pillars and Weavers

2009-09-12T16:18:00.006-06:00

Tell kids it's time for a break. Have them spread out and wander around the room. When you shout out descriptions, have all the kids who DO fit the description freeze in place like pillars. Have those who DO NOT fit the description walk quickly around the room, weaving in and out of the pillars. When kids are almost done weaving, switch to another description so that different kids freeze while others weave. Here are some ideas:

* Has a brother
* Has a sister
* Is an only child
* Has black hair
* Has brown eyes
* Likes math
* Has a dog
* Has seen the ocean
* Likes broccoli

When you are ready to finish the brain break, throw out a description that would fit all of the students like, "Is in 4th grade" or "Is having fun". Then instruct the students to sit back down in their desks for the remainder of the lesson.

Adapted From: Fidget Busters - 101 Quick Attention-Getters for Children's Ministry

Quick Brain Break Idea: 1-2 Hold!

2009-08-31T09:33:00.005-06:00

Students can do this activity standing right beside their desk. Instruct them to jog with high knees 3 times, holding on the third count. This is especially fun with music emphasizing the third beat...a couple of great music options are:

We Will Rock You
Wipe Out

Remember the importance of explaining exactly what you are going to do, how long it is going to last, and what you expect from your students when the activity is done. These firm expectations along with an explanation of how movement enhances learning help to establish buy-in from students.

Five Strategies for a Positively GREAT School Year

2009-08-23T21:50:00.004-06:00

These are some of my favorite tips on improving classroom management and student success. I am passing them along as good reminders of the difference some basic changes can make for your students.

1. Believe that your students WANT to do their best, and to be successful in your classroom. Kids can sense what you expect from them, and they are more likely to prove you right than wrong. Check your expectations and your preconceived notions.

2. Overplan - keeping students busy in meaningful tasks keep wandering minds occupied and focused. The key here is meaningful activities. The extra time you put in to making this happen will be well worth your effort.

3. Move around the room while you are lecturing, giving students the chance to shift in their chairs while they follow you. This is especially helpful for kids who NEED to move. Changing position and vantage points helps keep students engaged in what you are teaching them.

4. Each time you introduce an activity, explain what the purpose is, how it will benefit them, and what you need them to do. The clearer your expectations and boundaries are, the greater chance for success!

5. Incorporate BRAIN BREAKS (movement-based activities) into your daily routine. Movement increases oxygen and blood flow to the brain, which enhances concentration and memory. If you place brain breaks strategically throughout your lecture time, you will be pleasantly surprised at the difference you will see in behavior and focus.

Thank you for all you do - the depth of your impact on the lives of your students is vast.

Leadership Practices of Successful Elementary School Principals

2009-07-21T10:43:00.005-06:00

5 Leadership Practices of Elementary School Principals

In a study based out of South Carolina, five common leadership qualities were statistically significant between elementary principals at schools which were academically successful and unsuccessful. The five qualities below were consistently high among the principals at academically successful schools.

Leadership Practices of Elementary School Principals

Empirical Research

By Dr. Timothy L. Pringle, Dr. Edward P. Cox

2007

1. Modeling the Way - Successful Principals lead from a strong connection to their principles, beliefs and values. They are consistent in making decisions and being a role model for staff and students based on their principles. They show love and concern for the students, they are involved with staff, and follow-through on commitments.

2. Inspiring a Shared Vision - A strong Principal has a clear vision for the school's future, which they base their decisions and priorities on. They know what their staff and students desire, and they include them in the journey to what they see for their school. They believe they can make a difference.

3. Enable Others to Act - Collaboration, active participation by staff and teams filled with excitement are a part of what makes a Principal a great leader. Mutual respect is borne out of trust and dignity, and they know this is the backbone of a successful school. They provide healthy support, direction and parameters to their teachers, helping them to continue learning and working together. Cotton (2003) noted that involving the staff in decision making had the greatest impact on teacher morale and students' achievement.

4. Challenging the Process - This leadership practice is about having courage to take risks, understanding that the status quo is not good enough. They bring passion, conviction and confidence in others that brings support for change. They encourage and push the envelope, stretching themselves, their staff, and their students.

5. Encouraging the Heart - Successful Principals appreciate their teachers and show them with acts of kindness. They are able to lift spirits when staff becomes discouraged. They write thank you notes, recognize staff publicly and privately, and create a culture of celebration. A principal's praise and appreciation motivates staff, and acts like a springboard, encouraging increased productivity and creativity for staff and students.

For the full research study, please go to: http://www.academicleadership.org/emprical_research/Leadership_Practices_of_Elementary_School_Principals.shtml

The Importance of PLAY and EXERCISE

2009-07-13T11:15:00.005-06:00

I had the privilege of attending at lecture given by Dr. John Ratey, author of "Spark: The New Science of Exercise and the Brain" last week, and wanted to share two major things that I took away from the day.

First, our brains and bodies NEED to play. In a time when test scores give added pressure for teachers to 'teach for the test' and administrators to scramble to find extra minutes for classroom instruction, many times at the expense of recess, p.e., music, or art, we stand at a crossroad for our kids. We need to ask ourselves what our goal is, exactly. Are we trying to create mini robots, who can read before they have any comprehension, or worse yet, mini adults, who have forgotten the importance of fun, and how much we can learn from having it? Animals who are not allowed to play do not thrive...their brains shrivel. As teachers, we have a responsibility to our students to present material in an interesting manner...using creative ways to let kids EXPERIENCE the lesson, so they really get it, learn it, and keep it. Read the book, "Play" by Stewart Brown for more information on this.
Second, our brains and bodies NEED exercise. It's the way we were made...our brains and bodies work better when they are allowed to move. We are able to concentrate better, we are more positive, we are less impulsive, less frustrated, less hopeless, less fidgety, less stressed, more motivated. The list goes on and on. Our kids are dealing with early onset diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and even early signs of Alzheimer's is being detected in some obese children. One in five children at the age of four in America is obese. Yikes. Exercise releases the same hormones that we are handing out in pill form to our children and adults who are struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, addiction, etc.... As far as I am concerned, there is no argument against incorporating effective exercise into every part of our lives as children and adults that holds water. We simply cannot afford to ignore the data. This is the future of our world we are talking about. Read "Spark: The New Science of Exercise and the Brain" by Dr. John Ratey for more information on this.

So, the question now becomes, what can we do about this? First thing, we need to understand it and to live it. Play. Exercise. Live the life that will bring you a longer, healthier, more satisfying existence so that you can share it from the perspective of someone who 'gets' it. Then, tell EVERYONE, especially your students how important movement is. Tell them that EVERYTHING they do makes a difference. What they think, how they talk, how hard they work, what they do with their bodies makes a difference. And last, but definitely not least...PLAY and EXERCISE with your students. Teach them why it's important, and that they have the power to do great things with their bodies and minds. See the difference it makes, and be proud that you are giving them life skills that will impact them forever.

Why Would Moderate to High Physical Activity Improve Student Performance?

2009-07-07T15:34:00.003-06:00

Article by Ellen R. Delisio
Education World
Copyright 2007 Education World
Published 3/14/2007

An interview with Dr. Dawn Coe, Part II

Education World: Why would moderate to high physical activity improve student performance?

Dr. Coe: Increased physical activity during the school day may increase alertness and reduce boredom, which may lead to increased attention span and concentration. It is also suggested that increased activity levels might be related to increased self-esteem, which would improve classroom behavior as well as performance. It is possible that vigorous activity [such as the level achieved by playing sports] may provide the threshold level of activity needed to produce these potentially desirable effects.

What level of activity is needed to impact academics?

2009-06-16T08:38:00.008-06:00

Article by Ellen R. Delisio
Education World
Copyright 2007 Education World
Published 03/14/2007

An interview with Dr. Dawn Coe, Part I

Education World: How would you characterize the level of physical activity necessary to show changes in academic performance?

Dr. Dawn Coe: Moderate physical activity involves some increase in breathing or heart rate -- one example is brisk walking -- while vigorous physical activity involves a large increase in breathing or heart rate and sweating, as in the case of jogging. Most sports that children play qualify as vigorous -- the sports most often played by the students in our study included football, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball and swimming. Other activities that can be categorized as vigorous include skateboarding; and playing games with friends, such as tag; cycling, and jumping on a trampoline. It appears that vigorous activity, which can be achieved by participating in these activities and sports, is necessary to show changes in academic performance.

Outdoor Obstacle Course Ideas

2009-06-12T10:04:00.002-06:00

Here are some ideas for setting up your own obstacle course right in your yard! Invite the neighbors over, and you've got an easy, fun activity for kids of any age to get moving!

This is what I'm setting up today:
Jump rope station - jump twenty times
Swimming noodle station (I put 3 in a row) - Run with feet out wide, straddling the noodles
Bouncy ball station - throw ball up in air and catch it ten times
Lawn chair station (I kept the chair folded, still in it's holder) - raise chair over head, run to next station
Trampoline station (we have a small, one-person tramp) - jump twenty times

Some other ideas - jumping jacks, walk on brick edging, hula hoop, hop scotch, crab crawl or bear walk, shoot the basketball in the hoop, kick the soccer ball in the goal, etc.... Look around and get creative with what you already have! Just GET ACTIVE and HAVE FUN!!!

Summer Resolutions

2009-06-10T09:14:00.004-06:00

Even though my children are only 11 and 9 I already feel like an old lady when I see moms with their little ones. "Oh, honey...enjoy those kids. It goes so fast..." This advice was heeded to me more times than I can count, but still there are things I wish I would have done with them, or not done. This is the journey that we are all on, but just as we teach kids about history, and how we can learn from our past, we can make that same connection in our own lives, and seize this opportunity, called 'summer'.

To me, summer is a new beginning. A chance to slow down and re-connect. I have made some 'Summer Resolutions' that I'd like to share with you... This summer, I am going to:

Get outside every day. I pledge to take walks, hikes, play at parks, swim, camp, throw and catch baseballs, kick soccer balls, and take in the beauty wherever I am.
Do fun, easy projects with my kids. Yesterday we made goo (cornstarch and water), and learned about condensation by stirring a glass of juice and ice. Walla! The glass was wet in a couple of minutes. Nothing fancy, but it was simple, and we all learned a few things.
Spend one day a week serving others. We cleaned all of my mom's windows this week, next week we're at an animal shelter. It's a great reminder to all of us how lucky we are to be healthy and able, and how great it feels to reach outside of ourselves.
Win the family reading competition at least once. We keep track of how many minutes we read, and whoever wins at the end of the month gets a drink at Starbucks. I really want to read more, and I really want the Starbucks drink! (Nonfat, extra hot chai, please).

There are more things I am tempted to put on my list, but I have found that the more simple I can keep things, the better chance for success!!! I hope that you will enjoy each day, as the precious gift that it is. I hope that you see the beauty around you, and that it is a time of renewal for you. Now, where is that book....?

Facts and Findings: Vigorous Exercise Can Lead to Academic Gains

2009-06-03T10:27:00.004-06:00

Article by Ellen R. Delisio
Education World
Copyright 2007 Education World
Published 03/14/2007

A group of researchers found that exercise - when it is vigorous enough - can help improve students' academic performance. While not all kids break a sweat every day, even some activity during the school day can help students focus, one of the authors said. Included: Information about physical activity and learning.

The study "Effect of Physical Education and Activity Levels on Academic Achievement in Children" conducted by researchers from Michigan State University and Tarleton State University, offers some mixed news when it comes to physical activity and student learning.

While students in the study who engaged in physical activity tended to perform better in school, the benefits were seen when students exercised vigorously - enough to increase their heart rate and breathing. Students who participated in sports attained that level of exercise; participating in physical education education classes did not seem to do the trick, the study noted.

According to the study, 214 sixth-grade students were randomly assigned to physical education during either first or second trimesters. Moderate and vigorous physical activity in the number of 30-minute time blocks outside of school was assessed on the scale of 1 (no activity), 2 (some activity), or 3 (activity meeting Healthy People 2010 guidelines). Healthy People 2010 is a U.S. government initiative that sets health objectives for citizens to meet by the end of the decade.

Then the students' academic performance was assessed using grades from four core academic classes and standardized test scores, in this case Terra Nova percentiles. The study indicated that students' grades were similar regardless of whether students were enrolled in physical education class during first or second semesters. Physical education classes averaged only 19 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous student activity. Students who either performed some or met Healthy People 2010 guidelines for vigorous activity had significantly higher grades, the authors concluded.

But at the same time, any physical activity during the day can contribute to student engagement, by helping youngsters to feel more alert, according to one of the study's authors, Dr. Dawn Coe, an assistant professor of exercise science and fitness/wellness at Grand Valley State University in Michigan.

Dr. Coe talked with Education World about why vigorous exercise helps school performance and the value of physical activity during the school day.

I will share questions and answers from this interview over the next five weeks. To see the whole article, or to find other interesting articles affecting educators, please go to www.educationworld.com.

Loosen those Legs!

2009-05-20T09:42:00.003-06:00

Lift alternating knees up to waist height while touching opposite hand to knee - 10x
Lift alternating feet to the back, touching opposite hand to foot - 10x
Separate feet, bend alternating knees, touching opposite elbow to knee- 10x
Lift heels off the ground, then toes - 10x
With feet together, slowly reach down to touch toes, and hang there for a count of 10, then slowly come up

Facts and Findings: The Connection Between Physical Exercise and Memory

2009-05-18T10:31:00.007-06:00

http://www.exforsys.com/
The Connection Between Physical Exercise and Memory
2008

As more research is conducted on the brain, it has become more apparent to scientists that the connections between the body and mind are stronger than were previously imagined.

Not only is physical exercise important in keeping the body healthy, but it has also become apparent that it may reduce the chances of a person developing dementia or other memory disorders. There are a number of reasons why this occurs. Physical exercise has an effect on the cardiovascular system that is well documented. It seems that there is a connection between the health of the brain and the health of the heart.

Physical exercise is also responsible for regulation of blood sugar levels. Research has shown that the amount of glucose tolerance in the body has an effect on the size of the hippocampus. In addition to this, exercise will increase the amount of blood flow to the brain, and blood is rich in oxygen. Increasing the amount of oxygen and blood to the brain will allow it to function correctly, and this will have an effect on the memory.

...a number of studies have been taken of young children, and the results show that there is a strong link between their school test scores and physical fitness. Children who were in good physical shape were quickly able to process visual information. In addition to the research that have been conducted on humans, a number of studies have been conducted on animals. Rodents have been used for these studies, and the results were much more powerful, because the researchers had more control over the environment. Not only did these scientists want to know about the connection between physical exercise and memory, but they wanted to know why there was such a connection.

The results from the tests that were conducted on mice indicate that the synapses in their brains were reinforced, and it also helpsed in the growth of neurons. However, if the mice got too much exercise, they would become confused, and would have a hard time moving through a maze.

What this shows is that too much physical exertion can cause the brain to produce too many neurons, and it could actually interfere with the ability of an organism to learn. Generally, the creation of neurons assist the brain in learning and memory. Despite this, it is important to have balance. While you will want to exercise your body to improve your mind, it should never be overdone.

The regions of the brain which will be effected by physical exercise the most are the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and the temporal cortex. In addition to physical exercise, the type of diet that a person eats must be taken into consideration as well.

Circle Run

2009-05-11T10:03:00.005-06:00

Ask students to pretend there is a water bottle in front of them on the floor (just pretend, though...we don't want them to trip on anything!) Keeping their head and shoulders up, facing the front of the room, instruct them to run around the 'object' with their feet. This requires quick thinking and gets the blood flowing in a hurry! Have them try both directions. When they get the hang of this one, you can try saying, "switch" several times to keep them sharp!

Facts and Findings: The Impact of Reducing Physical Education for Increased Classroom Time

2009-05-11T09:39:00.002-06:00

Active Education
Physical Education, Physical Activity and Academic Performance
Fall 2007 Research Brief

The summary of peer-reviewed research on the relationship between physical activity and academic performance among children and adolescents yields the following insights:

Sacrificing physical education for classroom time does not improve academic performance.

Many school systems have downsized or eliminated PE under the assumption that more classroom instructional time will improve academic performance and increase standardized test scores. The available evidence contradicts this view.

To date, five controlled experimental studies -in the United States, Canada and Australia-have evaluated the effets on academic performance of allocating additional instructional time for PE. All five studies clearly demonstrate that physical activity does not need to be sacrificed for academic excellence.

...Students whose time in PE or school-based physical activity was increased maintained or improved their grades and scores on standardized achievement tests, even though they received less classroom instructional time than students in control groups.

Talk It Out

2009-04-29T10:38:00.002-06:00

Give students the opportunity to process information from what they have just learned, or to share information about individual projects with a classmate. Pair them with a partner, and let them walk around the room, discussing a given topic for an allotted time (2-3 minutes is usually plenty). Some ideas to use with this activity:

What was your favorite part of the book we just read?
Tell your partner three interesting things you learned about the planet you are studying.
If you were the Principal for a day, what would you do?
What are you looking forward to about summer?

Of course, the topics are endless! This activity can either be related to your lesson, or something totally obscure.

What's Holding You Back?

2009-04-27T14:42:00.003-06:00

My hat is off to teachers. I know there are so many different things that get dumped in your laps from day-to-day. Every teacher I know entered the profession because they truly wanted to make a difference, not because they looked forward to the endless paperwork that would lie ahead of them. So, I know that my message to incorporate movement into the classroom feels like one more thing that you have to take responsibility for, trying to fit it into your already jam-packed day. There are obstacles... if you offer movement opportunities to the students, will you be able to reign them back to the lesson? Then there's the time factor...you are already trying to fit too much into too little time. Also, it seems like a waste of classroom instruction time to parents/administration to have the kids doing jumping jacks in the middle of the math lesson.

These are all valid points, and I would like to address them here.

Setting specific boundaries and expectations for brain breaks allows students the chance to move around, with the clear understanding of how long it will last, and what is expected of them when the time is up. I love using a timer or a song for many activities...this gives a definite ending time with a signal of getting back to work.

The dilema of too little time is a real one, but it is important to look at the mountain of research that points to increased concentration, fewer behavior issues, better self-esteem, and improved memory when movement is incorporated. It truly creates a win-win for student and teacher alike, making classroom time more efficient.

It is sometimes difficult to try new teaching practices that may bring criticism from parents and even administration in some cases. Here's the thing...what we understand about how people learn now versus even 10 years ago is dramatically different. It would be foolish for us to keep spinning our wheels in the same direction without taking a serious look at what the research is showing us. With thoughtful planning, the educational experience can truly be transformed into something far more effective than it has ever been!

Some Things to Consider...

2009-04-17T19:07:00.005-06:00

There are a couple of strategies concerning brain breaks that have worked very well for some teachers that I have had the privilege of working with, and I wanted to share them with you...

1. Pick 5 brain breaks, and use them exclusively, calling them by name to the students. This way, they know what to expect when you announce it. This takes away the 'learning curve' of a new activity, and helps the students understand what the boundaries and expectations are.

2. Pick one brain break per week, and use it continually for the whole week. Most activities can be used in conjunction with a lesson plan, or just as a complete brain/body break, providing a chance for movement.

Either way, these ideas help make it simpler for the teacher as well as the student. It shouldn't have to be "rocket science" to get your kids moving. Remember, something is better than nothing, and the easier to implement and understand, THE BETTER!!!

Facts and Findings: Instructors Make Pitch For Vigorous Exercise to Improve Test Scores

2009-04-13T12:09:00.004-06:00

Sparking the Mind
By David Quick
The Post and Courier
Charleston.net
January 14, 2008

Last school year, the faculty at Charleston Progressive Academy in downtown Charleston experienced several problems with students who had to wait up to 40 minutes every morning for classes to start.

Elementary and middle school students, who were dropped off by buses in the morning and gathered in hallways and the gym before classes, got into fights, were confrontational with teachers, wandered to other parts of the school and, generally, were in a bad mood.

They certainly weren't ready for learning.

As part of a call for innovation at the public magnet school, physical education teacher Drexena Puza suggested offering activities, such as basketball, 'double dutch' jump roping and pogo stick jumping at stations in the gym before classes.

The school started the activities at the beginning of the 1007-08 school year. The kids love it. And it's solved some problems.

"What we have observed is a 95 percent decrease in discipline referrals before school," says Charleston Progressive's Principal Wanda Wright-Sheats. "Teachers have reported that students are more focused. We observed this as well during our MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) testing...Our initial observtion was that students testing immediately after morning activities did better - meeting or exceeding individual growth targets - than middle schoolers taking the test late morning or in the afternoon."

This result may come as no surprise to 'old schoolers' who can remember breaking a sweat during recess or physical eduction classes. But in an era when standardized test scores are the gold standard, time devoted to vigorous physical activity has been lost.

The pendulum may be about to swing back.

To read the rest of this article, go to http://charleston.net/news/2008/jan/14/sparking_mind27365/

Spring Fever

2009-04-13T11:58:00.005-06:00

Many teachers have been telling me how antsy their students are getting at this time of year...they are counting the days until summer break, and they just want to get outside in the sunshine and play!

Here's a great activity to tap into their excitement about the summer while giving them some movement and a break between lessons.

Pull out a beach ball (you can find them at many dollar stores right now) and challenge the students to keep it up in the air as long as they can. You can make this activity more dynamic...either add some music, or tape sticky notes on it with different questions pertaining to your lesson. If the ball falls on the floor, the student who picks it up takes a question off the ball and answers it.

Happy Spring!!!

The Wave

2009-03-30T11:58:00.002-06:00

Instruct students to stand up, and have them raise their hands in the air in a sequence across the room. Change directions, speed, etc... It's also fun to have them say, "whoooo" as their arms go up - this always brings about giggles, and really does give their brains a break and a chance to 'file' all of the information they have learned prior to the activity.

Facts and Findings: Podcast on Exercise and the Brain

2009-03-30T10:28:00.004-06:00

There is a wonderful podcast done by Ginger Campbell M.D. interviewing Dr. John Ratey of Harvard Medical School, and author of many books, including, "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain." Click on the title above to check it out.

Facts and Findings: Exercise and Children's Health

2009-03-23T14:56:00.002-06:00

"Exercise and Children's Health"
By Theodore Ganley M.D. and Carl Sherman
The Physician and Sports Medicine Journal, Feb. 2000

Benefits of Exercise for Children's Health:

Weight control. According to research done in 1991, nearly one-fourth of American children are considered overweight, up 20% from 1981. Increasing physical activity along with reducing caloric intakes has been known as an effective weight-loss strategy, and helps with self-esteem and socialization. Overweight children are at an elevated risk of many health problems, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, type 2 diabetes, growth hormone dysregulation, and respiratory and orthopedic problems.
Bone building. Physical activity and exercise increases bone mineral density, lowering the risk of osteoporosis when the child gets older. The skeleton appears to be most responsive to the effects of activity during growth.
Cardiovascular protection. Although cardiovascular disease doesn't appear until adulthood, risk factors can be present much earlier in life. High blood cholesterol levels in children increase the risk of hypertension in adulthood. A substantial amount of research suggests that children who exercise regularly, significantly reduce their blood cholesterol level.
Mental health benefits. Exercise has a beneficial effect on the mental health of children. It can reduce anxiety, and depression symptoms, increase self-esteem, improve a child's self-image, and help them cope with stress better.

Tap-ups

2009-03-05T08:20:00.003-07:00

Instruct students to stand up, facing their chairs. Alternating legs, have them lift their knees up, touching their toes on the chair. This gets the heart pumping pretty quickly because of the large muscle groups used. This is a great movement activity to incorporate math or spelling challenges...have them count by numbers or spell words aloud as they do the tap-ups.

Facts and Findings: Building Your Brain Through Brawn

2009-02-26T12:35:00.002-07:00

www.entrepreneur.com
By Francine Kizner

You know you should exercise regularly. You want to look good, feel good and be healthy. But now researchers are saying that exercise can also help increase your brain power.

Neuroscientists at Columbia University found that when their subjects worked out for one hour, four times a week, they ended up pumping more blood to the part of their brain that controls neurogenesis - the creation of new brain cells - than the control group did. The part of the brain affected is also important for creating and processing memories - and predictably, the subjects who exercised did better on word-recall tests than the control group, too.

While this study was performed on subjects between the ages of 21 and 45, there have been similar studies on school-age children and the elderly that have produced the same kinds of results. It kind of makes you want to rethink the stereotype of the dumb jock.

Conga Count

2009-02-23T09:16:00.003-07:00

This is such a fun way to practice counting by 2's, 4's, etc... forwards or backwards! Have students form a conga line, moving in a big circle around the room. The pattern for conga is step, step, step kick. On each kick the students say the next number in the sequence.

Older students can be challenged more by starting with a high number and counting backwards for example, start with 100, count back by 7's.

Facts and Findings: Creating Excitement in the Classroom

2009-02-20T14:05:00.003-07:00

ED340272 1991-09-00
Active Learning: Creating Excitement in the Classroom
By Charles C. Bonwell and James A. Eison
Source: ERIC Clearinghouse on Higher Education Washington D.C.
George Washington University
www.eric.ed.gov

How Can Active Learning Be Incorporated in the Classroom?

The modification of traditional lectures (Penner 1984) is one way to incorporate active learning in the classroom. Research has demonstrated, for example, that if a faculty member allows students to consolidate their notes by pausing three times for two minutes each during a lecture, students will learn significantly more information (Ruhl, Hughes, and Schloss, 1987). Two other simple yet effective ways to involve students during a lecture are to insert brief demonstrations or short, ungraded writing exercises followed by class discussion.

...Discussion in class is one of the most common strategies promoting active learning with good reason. If the objectives of a course are to promote long-term retention of information, to motivate students toward further learning, to allow students to apply information in new settings, or to develop students' thinking skills, then discussion is preferable to lecture (McKeachie et al. 1986). Research has suggested, however, that to achieve these goals faculty must be knowledgeable of alternative techniques and strategies for questioning and discussion (Hyman 1980) and must create a supportive intellectual and emotional environment that encourages students to take risks (Lowman 1984).

Several additional strategies promoting active learning have been similarly show to influence favorably students' attitudes and achievement. Visual-based instruction, for example, can provide a helpful focal point for other interactive techniques. In-class writing across the disciplines is another productive way to involve students in doing things and thinking about the things they are doing. Two popular instructional strategies based on problem-solving model include the case study of instruction and Guided Design. Other active learning pedagogies worthy of instructors' use include cooperative learning, debates, drama, role-playing and simulation, and peer teaching. In short, the published literature on alternatives to traditional classroom presentations provides a rich menu of different approaches faculty can readily add to their repertoire of instructional skills.

YAAAAWN!

2009-02-18T12:41:00.002-07:00

Have students stand up and pretend they are yawning, opening their mouth wide, then stretching their chin from side to side. Even better, have them walk around the classroom while yawning. This also works great with laughter as well, if you don't mind a little noise! = )

Facts and Findings: Raising Achievement Using Brain Breaks

2009-02-18T12:16:00.004-07:00

Teaching Expertise
Raising Achievement Using Brain Breaks
April 2004

Children today are now more likely to be consuming and digesting slices of aerobic exercises with a heaping pinch of brain gym workouts sandwiches between lessons.

Here's some food for thought to explain why these child-friendly activities are on the increase - high-fat, high sugar diets have turned children into a population of heavy weights.

As childhood obesity continues to rise so do the risks for these children developing an array of diseases in later life, including diabetes, heart disease, heart and blood vessel disease, several cancers, and hyper-tension (high blood pressure). Obesity has also been associted with difficulties in breathing during sleep, asthma and serious kidney infections. By helping children understand the importance of exercise combined with healthy snacks and meals, children will develop healthy habits that will have a positive impact on them for life.

Separate to the issue of healthy eating is concentration. Children and adults learn more effectively when the information they receive is chunked and given little and often. Expecting anyone to learn for hours at a time without a break is unreasonable which is why brain breaks are the talk of the town. A desk gym approach to learning is now to be taken seriously to take off the pounds and to keep the brain active and alert. Brain Breaks are simple transitional physical and mental exercises designed to:

equip the teacher with tools to manage the physiology and attention of the class;
keep children in the most receptive state for learning

Enhanced learning through movement (educational kinesiology) increases the oxygen in the blood stream and leads to improved concentration and can enhance children's readiness for learning. Structured movements consciously activate the whole mind body system, stimulating nervous-system activity equally in all parts of the brain. Brain breaks are moments to step outside of curriculum subject lessons and divert the mind allowing it to:

breathe;
relax;
recharge;
refocus.

Breaks energize, enthuse and re-ignite tired or busy minds. Regular brain breaks are a major feature of accelerated learning allowing children to experience stress-free enjoyable activities.
Use brain breaks to:

alleviate anxiety;
improve physical fitness;
improve fine and large motor movement;
develop coordination and laterality;
to locate inappropriate behaviors;
to connect to learning.

Brain breaks can be used to begin morning and afternoon sessions, in between lessons or as a reward for working hard.

Got a Minute?

2009-02-06T10:01:00.002-07:00

Here's a very straight-forward, quick set of exercises you can take your students through to keep the blood and oxygen flowing!

10 Jumps
10 Push-ups on the desk (or wall)
10 Right foot hops
10 Cross-crawls (touch opposite hand to knee)
10 Left foot hops

BACK TO WORK!!!

This took me exactly a minute in my office, so you can throw it in at any time during the day to give your students a focus jolt!

Facts and Findings: 'Bowled Over'

2009-02-06T09:48:00.002-07:00

Education Week
Published Online: February 12, 2008
Published in Print: February 13, 2008

Exercise Seen as Priming Pump for Students' Academic Strides
By Debra Viadero

...Another study published (in 2007) involving 163 overweight children in Augusta, Ga., found, in addition, that the cognitive and academic benefits of exercise seemed to increase with the size of the dose.

For that study, a cross-disciplinary research team randomly assigned children to one of three groups. One group received 20 minutes of physical activity every day after school. Another group got a 40-minute daily workout, and the third group got no special exercise sessions.

After 14 weeks, the children who made the greatest improvement, as measured by both a standardized academic test and a test that measured their level of executive function - thinking processes, in other words, that involve planning, organizing, abstract thought, or self-control - were those who spent 40 miutes a day playing tag and taking part in other active games designed by the researchers. The cognitive and academic gains for the 20-minutes-a-day group were half as large.

"I was frankly bowled over by the results," said Catherine L. Davis, the lead author of the study, a preliminary version of which was published in December in Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. "It's like a staircase, which is considered strong evidence for causation," added Ms. Davis, who is an associate professor of pediatrics at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

Simon Says

2009-01-31T16:21:00.007-07:00

Okay, I know this one's an old stand by, but I can't tell you how many teachers from a wide range of grades have told me they swear by this activity!

One person plays Simon, and the rest stand facing him/her. Simon instructs and demonstrates each action by saying, "Simon says...touch your toes" for example. Everyone imitates this command.
If Simon makes a command without saying "Simon says", the other players are not to imitate. Anyone who does is out of the game.

Use your creativity on this one...it can easily be adapted for different themes and ideas. Here are some ideas to connect it to math concepts...

Make a straight line - extend both arms out to the sides
Make parallel lines - arms straight out to the front
Make a plus, or positive sign - bending elbows, cross one forearm in front of the other
Make a minus, or negative sign - bend elbow, one arm across front of body
Make a circle - arms above head, fingertips together
Make a triangle - knee out to side, put hand on knee
Make a rectangle - feet out wide, squat down so thighs are parallel to floor (I know it's hard, but you can do it!)

*This activity requires students to listen closely and follow directions, while allowing them to move around to get the blood flowing. HAVE FUN!!!

Facts and Findings: Exercise Improves Kids' Academics

2009-01-27T12:17:00.002-07:00

Live Science
By Dan Peterson
December 29, 2008

The end of 2008 brings some discouraging news about our kids' brains and brawn. Recent results from an international math and science test show United States students are performing near the middle of the pack compared to other countries, while their levels of obesity continue to climb.

...Regarding student fitness, the most recent figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the percentage of overweight or obese 6 to 11 year olds has tripled since 1980, with more than 125 million children at unhealthy levels.

...The California Department of Education (CDE) looked for a correlation between fitness scores and test scores. They found that kids who were deemed fit (by a standard test of aerobic capacity, BMI, abdominal strength, trunk strength, upper body strength and overall flexibility) scored twice as well on academic tests as those that were unfit. In the second year of the study, socio-economic status was taken into account, to possibly eliminate that variable as an explanation. As expected, those in the upper-income brackets scored better overall on the academic tests, but within the lower-income set of students, the same results were observed - kids who were more fit performed better academically.

Data Dash

2009-01-18T14:32:00.003-07:00

Divide students up into groups of 4-20. Larger groups will increase the difficulty, and also the amount of time it will take to complete this activity. Instruct the groups to gather and record specific data about each other. Here are some ideas to get you started...

Alphabetical list of pet names
Number of letters in first/last name
Number of minutes it takes them to get to school
Birthdays
Length of pinkie, foot, hair, etc...
How far each can jump
Alphabetical list of favorite food

This is fun as a timed activity...you can even record the length of time it takes each group to complete their assignment!

Facts and Findings: Boost Your Brain

2009-01-18T14:07:00.002-07:00

Get Fit Now - Boost Your Brain
By Michael O'Shea

...Research suggests that regular aerobic exercise may delay or even reverse age-related brain decline, including that associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia. According to a review of studies in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, moderate physical activity - anything that leaves you breathless - can increase both the volume of brain tissue and the brain's ability to function. In a study at the University of Kansas Medical Center, researchers found that patients with early Alzheimer's who worked out regularly showed less deterioration in the areas of the brain linked to memeory than more sedentary patients with the disease. Other studies indicate that high levels of physical fitness have a positive effect on mental plasticity, or the brain's capacity for growth and development.

Balance Check

2009-01-10T11:09:00.005-07:00

Have students stand on one foot. See if they can lift the other leg up to the front, out to the side, and to the back. Then challenge them to circle their free leg around. For a real challenge, have them just stand one one foot and close their eyes. Then try the other side. Is one side easier than the other?

This activity usually brings laughter as they realize how much harder balance is without the visual cues. This is a great opportunity to talk about 'proprioceptors'...the sensory receptors found on nerve endings that make us aware of the position of our body and its movement in space. For more information, go to http://www.answers.com/topic/proprioceptor. This is really fun for kids to understand what is going on in their bodies as they try to balance, and that they can improve their balance by training their proprioceptors!

Worry Free Zones Needed

2009-01-06T12:28:00.006-07:00

Before Christmas a friend of mine who teaches fourth grade shared with me that one of her students had been worried about whether her mother would be able to pay the heating bill that month. That has been nagging at me ever since. Not that I wasn't aware that many of our children in schools come preoccupied about situations in and out of their families, but it made me think about how many more kids, who never thought about those things at all, have been faced with the difficult times their parents are struggling with.

I know we have had more talks in our house about being 'smart' with our money, not being able to go to dinner or the movies in order to stay within our budget. I think that having these conversations gives opportunities to pull together and decide what is important, but also can cause tension, resentment and anger. Money is one of the top three reasons couples fight. How many more families are on 'survival mode' right now? And more importantly from a teacher's perspective...what is the affect on our kids?

The impact that you have on your students is tremendous. They may come to school concerned about the world outside of the school building, but in many cases their concern can be softened by a feeling of safety and connectivity. I would love to hear from you...how have you seen the economy affect your students, and what measures have you taken to ensure that your classroom can be a 'worry-free zone'?

Virtual Vacation

2009-01-02T09:13:00.005-07:00

Take students on a virtual vacation through a state, country, city, etc... If you are studying a specific place, this is a great activity to reinforce specific landmarks. We'll take a trip to the state of Washington today...pretend you are:

Climbing Mount Rainier
Salmon fishing
Waving to the people below the Space Needle in Seattle
Whale watching in the Puget Sound
Pitching a tent in Roosevelt State Park
Running from Mount Saint Helens - it's erupting!
Driving along the Pacific Shoreline on Highway 109...do you see any whales today?

*You can see how this could be adapted to any place you would like. It's a great chance for students to use their imaginations, review information about geographical places, and of course get some movement!

Facts and Findings: Exercise Eases Obesity and Anger in Kids

2008-12-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

HealthDay
By Kevin McKeever

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 3 (HealthDay News) -- Overweight kids may be able to work out their anger with exercise, a new report finds.

A study of sedentary but otherwise healthy 7- to 11-year-olds found they reduced both their weight and anger issues by taking part in a 10- to 15-week after-school aerobic exercise program. The finding applied to children across lines such as race, gender and socioeconomic status, as well as regardless of how fit or overweight the kids were.

"Exercise had a significant impact on anger expression in children," researcher Catherine Davis, a clinical health psychologist with the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine, said in a news release issued by the school. "This finding indicates that aerobic exercise may be an effective strategy to help overweight kids reduce anger expression and aggressive behavior."

Previous research had shown that exercise helps cut down on depression and anxiety in children, she said, noting that most people believe that exercise also helps adults manage anger.

"I think if teachers could see that exercise helps kids control their behavior and get along, they would be the top proponents of physical activity for kids," Davis said.

The study was published in the November issue of Pediatric Exercise Science.

Tunnel Pass

2008-12-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Have children form a single line, standing with their feet apart. Hand a ball to the first person in line, instructing them to roll it between their legs to the person behind them. As soon as they have passed the ball, they run to the end of the line to keep the tunnel going.

*This helps the students stretch their hamstrings, get some much needed activity, and work together with their classmates. For larger classes, try splitting students up into smaller groups to keep them moving.

Facts and Findings: How Exercise Revs Up Your Brain

2008-12-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

U.S. News and World Report
"On Fitness" How Exercise Revs Up Your Brain
By Katherine Hobson

Chemicals influenced by exercise, including neurotransmitters and growth factors, are being investigated for their role in mood and brain function. Even runner's high, that elusive euphoria that some people experience after prolonged or intensive running, is becoming clearer - literally. A study done in Germany, published in March in Cerebral Cortex, used PET scans to look at the brains of 10 athletes following a two-hour run. The scans confirmed that during the run, endorphins were released in certain parts of the brain known to be involved with the processing of emotions. But while endorphins may cause the runner's high, they are not the sole regulators of mood and emotions during a workout. "A lot of things contribute to us feeling better when we exercise," says Dr. John Ratey, psychiatrist. "Endorphins are one of them, but so are norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)."

Writing Race

2008-12-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

Divide students up into two or more teams. The first person from each team runs to the board to write the first sentence of a story. When they run back to tag the next person in line, that person continues the story, and so on. There are a couple of variations you could do with this activity. If there is not a lot of room on the board, you could have a piece of paper for each team at the front of the room, or turn it into a story telling activity by having the groups take turns telling their stories one sentence at a time.

*This is a fun activity that gets kids thinking quickly, utilizing their creativity and imagination. Also, it gives students a great chance to move around a little!

Facts and Findings: How Much Exercise Do Kids Need?

2008-12-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the majority of children should be getting 60 minutes of physical activity per day. In their recommendation, they stress the importance of including different types of activity that work strength, endurance and flexibility.

As we begin to understand the profound effects of exercise on physical and mental health, self-esteem, concentration, self-control, etc... it becomes evident that our efforts to encourage exercise and movement for kids will help them in the short and long run. It is something that we just cannot afford to ignore!

Winter Sports

2008-11-30T15:28:00.000-07:00

Have students pretend they are outside, participating in different winter activities, such as:

Walking and/or running through a deep snowbank (lift those knees!)
Skiing down a hill
Ice skating
Scoring a goal for the hockey team
Snow angels (jumping jacks)

*You can help students visualize themselves actually experiencing these things (talking about what you might see on a mountain while you're skiing down, etc...) This activity requires imagination, and gets the blood flowing to the muscles and brain. Breaks like this give their brain a chance to 'sort the files' before taking more in.

Facts and Findings: Significant Stats

2008-11-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

I'd like to share some stats and information taken from the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports concerning kids and health:

Young people are at particular risk for becoming sedentary as they grow older. Encouraging moderate and physical activity among youth is important. Because children spend most of their time in school, the type and amount of physical activity encouraged in schools is important.
16 percent of children and teens aged 6 to 19 were overweight in 1999-2002, triple the proportion in 1980. Fifteen percent of children in the same age group are considered at-risk for overweight. The percentage of overweight African American, Hispanic, and Native American children is 20%.
More than 10 percent of children between the ages of 2 and 5 are overweight, double the proportion since 1980.
Health risks associated with being overweight or obese include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma and arthritis.
School and worksite interventions have been shown to be successful in increasing physical activity levels.
Physical activity among children and adolescents is important because of the related health benefits (cardio-respiratory function, blood pressure control, weight management, cognitive and emotional benefits).
According to a study done by the National Association of Sports and Physical Education (NASPE), infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily and should not be sedentary for more than 60 minutes at a time except when sleeping.

Quick Feet

2008-11-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Start by having the students march their feet out wide, then in together (out-out, in-in). When they have that pattern down, tell them that when you say, "GO" they should move their feet as quickly as they can, keeping the same pattern. You can prolong the activity by doing intervals...alternating the marching and the quick feet. Try getting the students to start the movement with the right foot, then the next time with their left foot.

*This activity requires concentration and improves coordination. By having the chance to start with each foot separately, it forces us to use our brains more intently. One side is usually much easier than the other. As an added plus, you'll notice that this activity gets the heart rate going which pumps blood and oxygen to the muscles and brain, and fuels the process of creating new brain cells (neurogenesis).

Notes From Normandy Elementary

2008-11-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

I had the chance to share some of the research that has shaped my understanding of how exercise affects our learning process last night at Normandy Elementary School in Littleton, CO. Principal Costello has done an amazing job of encouraging her staff to include 'brain breaks' several times throughout the school day. Specifically, I shared information about Brain Gym (www.braingym.org/index), The Gurian Institute (www.gurianinstitute.com) and case studies from Dr. John Ratey's book, "Spark, The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain." (www.johnratey.com, also find the book at www.amazon.com).

As a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, I have always been aware of the endless benefits of exercise physically, emotionally, socially, mentally, etc... but have been blown away by the vast amount of research supporting movement as a 'brain enhancer.' It is my desire to share this information, and to provide effective resources to educators, students and families to promote fitness for better learning and health! This is where my passion to create the Classroom Energizer DVDs was fueled.

One gentleman asked at the end of the evening why, with all of these impressive numbers and body of research, do we not have P.E. every day for our kids. Good question. Unfortunately, there are so many demands placed on schools to 'perform' that P.E. has been an easy target to cut. On the outside it seems like a waste of time that offers no educational benefit, but if you take a closer look at the wealth of research to support the opposite view, you might change your mind about that. There is an organization called PE4Life that is committed to helping schools understand the benefits of having daily P.E. and has done amazing work in changing the face of P.E. from what it looked like even 10 years ago. The website is at
http://www.pe4life.org/sub/AboutUS/index.cfm.

Even if we are just taking 'baby steps' toward encouraging exercise and movement for our kids , I think we're headed in the right direction. We as parents can do our part to increase fitness at home, understanding the full implications for our families. I applaud administrations and teachers who are embracing and implementing movement into the classroom. Normandy Elementary is one of those schools who has jumped on board, and is experiencing the difference for themselves!

Dance Break

2008-11-16T17:54:00.000-07:00

Bring in some fun dance music...the Beach Boys come to mind, but anything with a good beat will do. During a transition between subjects, or to break up a lecture section, turn the music on, have the kids hop up and dance to the music.

*This activity is so simple, yet allows the students to move, get some exercise, and have fun. When students have been processing information, an activity like this allows their brain to 'sort the files' while they take a content break!

Facts and Findings: Brain Gym's effect on reading abilities

2008-11-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

A total of 205 students were assigned to either the Brain Gym group or the control group. Throughout the 1998-99 school year, 12 teachers incorporated Brain Gym in the classroom curricula. The students and teachers did a minimum of 15 minutes of Brain Gym per day. An equal number of students were randomly selected for the control group, which did not use Brain Gym. Their test scores were compared, and the results indicated that those children in the Brain Gym group doubled their reading abilities over the control group, as measured by a standardized test.

Developed and completed by Cecilia Koester, M.Ed and Joyce B. Sherwood, M.A. copyright 2000
Published in Brain Gym Journal, Volume XV, Nos. 1 and 2, 2001 as "The effect of Brain Gym on reading abilities"

Story Walk

2008-11-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Have one student begin reading a story (a sentence or paragraph at a time) while the other students walk around the room. When the reader stops, the students stop walking. Switch readers.

*This activity requires the students to keep listening while they are moving, and gives them practice at reading out loud in a less intimidating environment. You can change the activity from walking to jogging in place, marching, touching opposite hand to knee, etc... to offer variety.

Facts and Findings: Exercisers are...

2008-11-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

Exercisers are 50% more likely to quit smoking, 40% more likely to eat less red meat, 30% more likely to cut down on caffeine, 250% more likely to eat low calorie foods and drinks, 200% more likely to lose weight, and 25% more likely to cut down on salt and sugar than non-exercisers. (Gurin, Harns 1985)

I don't know about you, but these stats from over 20 years ago are proof enough for me that this is the direction we should be leading our kids in. When we look at the dramatic rise in diabetes, heart disease and obesity in our youth, there is just no question that we need to step up to the task of being good role models for the future of our world!

Facts and Findings: Activity Breaks - A Push for Participation

2008-10-29T12:52:00.000-06:00

By Phillip Wankat and Frank Oreovicz, Purdue University 2006

"Since the attention span of almost all students is between 10 and 20 minutes, you can expect to lose most of your students if you lecture over 50 minutes straight...not only do students tune out once that 'dead' period is reached, the energy level of the class also flags. The solution might be to structure a 50 minute class something like this: a mini-lecture, an activity break and finally a third mini-lecture, including a wrap-up. The mini-lectures contain an introduction, a body and a closing, similar to a straight lecture except they are shorter."

Timed Talk

2008-10-29T12:39:00.000-06:00

Using a timer, tell your students that they have X amount of minutes to find a partner, and discuss a question. There are many different things you can do with this activity...you can let them come up with their own topics, have the whole class write different questions that you can use each time you do the activity, or use a question you have already prepared. The prepared question can relate to whatever you are studying, or use one of these ideas...

What do you do to make friends with someone new?
What is the coolest thing you have ever seen?
When you are afraid, what do you do?
What is the best gift you have ever received from someone? What made it so special?
Who is your hero? Why?
If you were only able to keep one toy or book, what would it be and why?

This activity requires students to work on their social skills, giving them an outlet to share their feelings. It involves creativity in relaying their thoughts on different topics, and promotes camaraderie among your class. To increase the amount of movement in this activity, you can make it a 'walk and talk' where the students either walk around the room or in place while they have their conversation.

I Spy

2008-10-24T07:59:00.000-06:00

Have students stand up and tell them that when they hear you say, "I spy" they need to stop what they are doing and ask, "what do you spy?" The students then act out what you 'spy'. Here are some fun ideas to use with this game:

I spy...

children hopping in one spot
basketball players dribbling their ball and jogging in place
rock stars silently jamming out on their guitars
astronauts walking on the moon
people skiing down a mountain
people surfing on the ocean
volleyball players spiking the ball over the net
students sitting down quietly

*This activity gives students a chance to use their imaginations, follow directions (and possibly lead, if time allows). This is also a great chance for them to exercise their muscles, releasing extra energy and working the body!

Facts and Findings: Physical Activity and Academic Performance

2008-10-22T16:29:00.000-06:00

Active Education, Fall 2007 Research Brief
www.activelivingresearch.org

According to five studies involving elementary students, regular physical activity breaks during the school day may enhance academic performance. Introducing physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive performance and promote on-task classroom behavior...

A 12-week research project conducted in eastern North Carolina in 2006 evaluated the effects of providing elementary students with a daily 10-minute activity break. Among 243 students in kindergarten through fourth grade, a daily activity break increased on-task behavior significantly, by an average of 8 percent. Among the least on-task students, the activity breaks improved on-task behavior by 20 percent.

Wild Wave

2008-10-18T12:47:00.000-06:00

Instruct your students to stand up, do the wave with their arms while saying,"WHOO!", then sit down quickly. Explain that when you call out a certain characteristic, the students who fit that description should do what you just practiced.

Here are some ideas to get you started: "Who in this class...

Likes to read
Has black hair
Has brown eyes
Has a missing tooth
Wears glasses
Has a dog
Has a brother
Likes to sing
Plays football
Is a great kid! (Hopefully they will all stand for this one!)

*This activity keeps students alert while waiting to hear for a description that fits them, and is a ton of fun when they get to stand up and do the wave!

Facts and Findings:" Exercise Seen Boosting Children's Brain Function"

2008-10-16T10:57:00.000-06:00

The Boston Globe 11/09/99 By Dolores Kong, Globe Staff (www.edupr.com)
"One of the best ways to maximize the brain is through exercise and movement,"expressed Dr. John J. Ratey (clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School). "Everybody feels better after exercise. There's reason for it." Ratey cited a variety of research in animals and humans, showing how physical exercise increases cerebral blood flow and levels of a brain-cell growth hormone. He also pointed to studies of exercise's positive effect on mood-altering brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.

Stomping Syllables

2008-10-10T12:32:00.000-06:00

Have students stand up beside their desks, and stomp each syllable of whatever they say. You could ask them each a question, have something on the overhead or board they could read collectively, or pair them into partners, where they would have a conversation while stomping their syllables!

* This activity requires that the kids think about two things at once...working motor and verbal skills. To increase difficulty, you could have them do two physical things at the same time, like stomp and clap side-to-side with each syllable, or create their own movement.

Facts and Findings: Physical Education

2008-10-08T17:50:00.000-06:00

Daily physical education is experienced by only 36% of school children today. This is in contrast to what we know about the benefits to the heart and brain. Exercise feeds the brain nutrients in the form of glucose and increasing nerve connections, all of which makes it easier for kids to learn. (Hancock, 1996)

Classroom Corners

2008-10-03T09:08:00.000-06:00

Number each corner of the room. Assign one student to be "It." That child counts aloud from 10-0 while closing his/her eyes. During this time, the students tiptoe quietly to any one of the four corners. All students must be in a corner by the time the counting is done. "It" calls out a number of a corner, and the students in that corner are out of play. (You can have them jog in place, do push-ups on their desks, touch opposite hand to knee (cross-crawl) ...etc to keep them moving if you like.) The other children redistribute themselves while the counting begins again. Play continues until there is only one child left, and they become "It."

* This is a fun, interactive game that gives students the chance to move, lead and follow and make choices. Try having a "four corners day", where a different child would have the chance to lead at each "brain break." This is also an excellent activity for inclement weather days during recess.

Must-Read Book: SPARK, The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain

2008-10-01T13:26:00.000-06:00

If you are interested in learning more about what a difference exercise and movement can make in relation to everything from academics to Alzheimers, you have got to read this book! The information is easy to understand, and is completely backed up by solid research. Dr. John J. Ratey of Harvard Medical School uses expertise from his background in Psychology to give new understanding to WHY it's important, and WHAT we can do about it, citing study after study to give solid examples to draw from.

Elbow Spell

2008-09-28T13:07:00.001-06:00

Ask students to stand, putting their right hand on their right shoulder. Have them spell their answers with their elbow in the air. Some ideas on what to spell...

spelling words
favorite food
favorite season
their name
favorite book
favorite sport
address

Be sure to switch arms! You could even let the students take turns leading this exercise, coming up with questions, and have them use a knee or foot to spell as well...be creative!

*This activity can be educational, give students the chance to lead and follow, provide a fun, interactive break, and provide much needed movement! (It can also be a great balance exercise if you use a foot or knee!)

Would You Rather...

2008-09-28T13:01:00.000-06:00

Have students stand up beside their desks. Ask them a question like, "Would you rather meet the Jonas Brothers or the President?" as you point to the side of the room they should go to in response to the question. Here are some more ideas for questions...

live without music or without T.V.?
have 3 eyes or webbed feet?
always have to say everything on your mind, or never speak again?
have x-ray vision or bionic hearing?
always lose or never play?
have one wish granted today, or three wishes granted in 10 years?
have half days everyday or no homework forever?
have a kangaroo or koala as your pet?

*This activity builds camaraderie while allowing the students to take a stand on issues silly or serious. This is a fantastic 'afternoon slump' activity that is just plain fun, and lets you get to know your students a little better while allowing them to move and stay engaged.

Face It!

2008-09-27T18:46:00.000-06:00

Instruct students to find a partner. (You may end up standing in if you have an uneven number.) Have one partner be the "mirror", copying the facial expressions of the other child. Be sure to switch so both partners have the chance to lead and follow. To make this a longer activity, challenge the students to use their whole bodies!

*This activity involves focus, quick reflexes and creativity while encouraging students to lead and follow.

Moving Math Problems

2008-09-27T18:43:00.000-06:00

Ask students to write word problems that include movement.

For example, Ashley did 10 sit-ups. Then she did two times as many jumping jacks. How many exercises did Ashley do?

Have students trade problems with a classmate, then "do" the problem with their bodies before they write down the answer!

*This activity involves creativity in writing the problem, fun exercise, as well as connects movement and meaning.

Double Time

2008-09-27T18:39:00.000-06:00

Have students do two different things at once. Try some of these ideas...

tap their heads and rub their stomachs (switch hands, too!)
snap their fingers while hopping on one foot
jog in place while moving bent elbows in and out
clap their hands side-to-side while standing up and sitting down
touch hand to opposite knee while nodding their head

*This activity can provide a great amount of exercise, without the students realizing it. Students find this fun and challenging, as some of the moves require great focus and concentration.

Math Hop

2008-09-27T18:35:00.000-06:00

Have your class answer math fact questions (e.g. what is 3+4?) then immediately hop, while counting to the answer number. There are many variations you could do to switch this up...hopping on one foot, marching in place, jumping jacks, push-ups on the desk, etc...use your imagination! This can also be done as a relay activity, allowing each student to have a separate turn to answer correctly while the group responds with the hops and counting before the next member of the team gets a turn to answer.

*This activity is great for practicing math facts in a fun way, utilizing quick thinking skills, along with heart-pounding exercise that will help burn extra energy, while releasing endorphins, which help people feel healthy and happy!

Punctuation Charades

2008-09-27T18:30:00.000-06:00

Have students use their bodies to convey what a period, question mark, exclamation point, comma, etc...would look like as a stationary body stance, and/or an active movement. This is a great activity to do while working on a reading project, talking about what the author intended to communicate, or how the speaker is feeling. This could also be adapted for transition words and phrases.

*This activity involves imagination and creativity, as well as connects movement and meaning.

Jumping Jack Flash

2008-09-27T18:18:00.000-06:00

After a certain goal is met (math problem solved, cross-word found, paragraph or page of reading done, etc...) have students stand up and do five jumping jacks.

*This can be a fun way to release extra energy while keeping students on track. Coming back to their desk to complete the next task helps keep students working toward their goal while meeting their movement needs, releasing endorphins and creating new neuron connections!