Jumping aids children’s learning… yes, it’s true!
Kids are known for having what many doctors refer to as “an incredible amount of energy.” (Just ask any pediatrician; they’ll agree!) So when a teacher discovers a method to engage kids physically while they focus on their studies, we can’t help but cheer. One educator in Arkansas has discovered a straightforward and effective tool to assist with this: Bouncy Bands. We’d like to place an order for 300, please!
Recently, Samantha Lee, the communications director for Pineville Public Schools in Pineville, Arkansas, shared her experience from a visit to a fourth-grade classroom. While observing literacy and social studies teacher Laura Thompson’s class, Lee noticed the students bouncing their feet on rubber bands attached to their desks. She wrote, “I watched the students reading quietly and calmly while their feet bounced, releasing energy that could have been distracting without these bands.” Thompson explained to Lee that the product, named Bouncy Bands, had positively impacted her students’ focus since she started using them.
To her astonishment, Lee’s post went viral, reaching over 1 million people and garnering more than 8.8 million views on her video showcasing the bands in action. “I shared a simple post about an innovative idea from one of our teachers. I never anticipated such a global response,” Lee remarked.
The majority of comments on Lee’s post are from educators and parents applauding this creative approach, many sharing it with others to see if it could benefit their own students or children. However, a few skeptics voiced their opinions, with one saying, “Why not just bring back P.E. so kids can expend energy that way?” While that’s a valid point—many of us remember the benefits of daily P.E. in our own school days—funding cuts in public education have unfortunately led to the reduction of these essential programs. It’s disheartening and unfortunate, but it’s the reality we face.
We should advocate for greater funding for schools, but in the meantime, why not explore innovative solutions to assist kids currently grappling with these challenges? We can find creative ways to allow children—who struggle to stay still—to channel their energy while remaining focused on their lessons. It doesn’t have to be a choice between daily P.E. and students fidgeting in their seats while reading. If we can provide a simple, low-cost solution to help these kids thrive, why not embrace it?
“The bands have significantly reduced students’ fidgeting and off-task behavior during lessons. Our school is great, offering two 20-minute recesses along with a 40-minute P.E. class! We strive to give our students ample physical activity. These bands are designed for the classroom, allowing students to stay engaged while sitting and learning. Mindlessly bouncing or resting their feet on a rubber band helps keep their minds focused and attentive,” Thompson shared. She funded the bands through a $450 grant from Donors Choose, a platform that connects donors with public school projects across the nation. Anyone can contribute, starting from just $1 or by fully funding a project. Additionally, Amazon.com is currently offering a temporary 20% discount on Bouncy Bands using the code “Pineville” to make them more affordable for teachers and individuals.
Teachers face enough challenges without adding distractions. If a little foot-bouncing can enhance learning, let’s get those bands into classrooms!
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Summary:
Bouncy Bands, a tool used by a teacher in Arkansas, have gained viral attention for their positive impact on classroom focus and engagement. Educators and parents alike are praising this innovative solution for helping kids release energy while studying. The use of Bouncy Bands may be a simple yet effective way to address the challenges of keeping children focused during lessons, especially in light of budget cuts affecting physical education.