When my child was about to enter preschool, I was filled with anxiety over whether he would be able to stay seated. At four years old, sitting still was definitely not his forte—and if I’m being honest, it still isn’t. Try finding a four-year-old who can stay put for any length of time; it’s not an easy task!
At this age, children are eager to explore the world, and physical activity is one of the best ways for them to do so. Anyone who has spent time with preschoolers knows that requiring them to remain still for extended periods is a recipe for frustration. Yet, this is precisely what occurs in some educational settings.
The Myth of Passive Learning
Who came up with the idea that young children learn best when they are confined to their seats, listening passively? They must not have spent more than a few minutes with a group of three- to five-year-olds, since it’s about the maximum time they can endure sitting still before they start squirming. Once they become restless, the chance of imparting any knowledge is gone.
In simple terms, preschoolers require movement to effectively learn. An abundance of research underscores the link between physical activity and learning. For instance, the book Teaching with the Brain in Mind dedicates an entire chapter to the necessity of movement for learning.
The Role of the Cerebellum
The cerebellum, a small but crucial part of the brain located at the back, plays a vital role in motor control. Interestingly, it houses almost half of the brain’s neurons. Research conducted by Dr. Jacob Turner at the Neurodevelopmental Institute discovered pathways connecting the cerebellum to areas of the brain involved in memory, attention, and spatial awareness—all essential for young learners.
Several studies referenced in the aforementioned book highlight the positive correlation between physical activity and learning in children. Many preschool games may appear to be mere play, but they serve as valuable learning experiences. For example, the game Simon Says teaches kids how to follow directions through movement, requiring them to stay engaged. Similarly, activities like building with blocks foster problem-solving skills, emphasizing the idea that play is a vital form of learning.
The Need for Movement
Staying sedentary all day isn’t beneficial for anyone, including adults. Even in traditional office settings, we take breaks to move around. If we recognize that our bodies need activity, why do we impose such restrictions on children?
“When you engage in movement, you activate the nerve cells critical for cognitive functions, preparing them for action,” Dr. Maria Thompson, a developmental psychologist, explained to our team. Allowing children to move intermittently through the day helps them release pent-up energy. At my son’s preschool, the kids switch activities approximately every 20 minutes—this includes seated work on math and language.
Research Supporting Physical Activity
Moreover, a 2017 study published in Pediatrics indicates that physical activity enhances classroom productivity among children. This research analyzed 26 studies involving over 10,000 children aged 4 to 13. It found that incorporating physical education into the daily schedule significantly boosts academic performance and helps improve math skills, classroom behavior, and reading comprehension.
We must reconsider our expectations of preschoolers and acknowledge their developmental limitations. It is unreasonable to expect them to sit still for long durations, a fact that many educational institutions seem to overlook.
“Allowing kids to move will not only reduce behavioral issues, but also enhance focus and mitigate interpersonal conflicts,” says Dr. Lisa Reynolds, a childhood wellness expert. Many parents notice how hyper children can be after school, often leading to mood swings and meltdowns.
The Challenge for Schools
A recurring challenge for schools is the perception that there isn’t enough time for physical activity. As advocated by Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative, schools should aim for at least an hour of physical activity each day.
“Feedback we receive from educators often points to the overwhelming demands we place on them,” says Sarah Johnson, director of Active Schools, a program inspired by “Let’s Move.”
We shouldn’t place blame on teachers. Many feel torn between fulfilling curriculum demands and ensuring kids get enough physical activity. There are only so many hours in a school day, and the pressure of meeting academic standards often overshadows the need for movement. Some decision-makers remain resistant to change, but we know what needs to be done to fix this issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s time to recognize the importance of physical activity in preschool education. Young children thrive on movement, and integrating this into their learning experiences is essential for their development.
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