Physical Activity and the link between that and children's reading

The physical activity and ability to turn a cartwheel isn't necessarily going to turn Johnny into a good reader.

However, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests a strong relationship between

...physical balance
...physical dexterity
...physical agility

and reading.

There is a growing body of research which suggests the existence of a high correlation between physical development and success in school.



Children are actively involved in learning when they are at play! How many ways can I get from point A to point B on a geodesic dome on the playground? Let's see, I can suspend my body using my hands to get me there. I can climb over the top. I can thread my body over and under the interconnecting bars. I can even walk around to the other side.

This is problem solving.

Neural networks that develop, as a result of physical activity, can also be used for intellectual activity. Children who watch TV passively many hours a day may limit the development of powerful learning strategies.

The strategies that children learn when they explore in supervised, risk-safe activities on the playground, in the gym, and in team and individual sports, can also be used in the classroom.

In fact...scientists have found that a brain area known to facilitate muscle control also fosters memory for ordering information. Yet another good reason to foster physical fitness.

It is no accident, then, that infants generally learn to creep, crawl, stand, and walk before speech and language develop.

There are many activities that incorporate balance and sensory integration...that can be done in the home and in the back yard...that not only contribute to physical and social well-being, but contribute, indirectly, to academic well-being.

These activities, if carefully chosen, lead to improved

...ability to perceive
...process
...react to

and organize information. The outcome is an improved level of functioning, overall!

Physical Activity