There is growing evidence that in-classroom physical activity can have a positive impact on children's cognitive skills and attitudes and academic behavior, and ultimately on improved academic performance. Several published scientific articles suggest that children's reading and mathematical problem solving skills, which depend on efficient and effective executive function, are positively influenced a lot by physical activity [1]. Also, basic cognitive functions related to attention and memory, and academic readiness are boosted by physical activity [2].

Similarly, the findings from an analysis of data gathered from 24 elementary schools during the research project called Physical Activity Across the Curriculum (PAAC), showed that adding sessions of physical activity to a school curriculum could have long-term benefits, such as improved academic performance [3].

Structured sensory and physical in-classroom tasks programs with an embedded cognitive development training component can help in increasing children’s behavioural development and enhancing both actual motor ability and self- academic competence.

So what can schools do to inject more activity and movement into the classroom learning activities? Try Kinems that promotes Active Education & Game-based Learning with the aid of the Kinect sensor. Motion, fun and learning can be easily combined. It can be a win-win situation for both teachers and children.

References

[1]. Vazou, S., & Smiley-Oyen, A. (2014). Moving and Academic Learning are not Antagonists: Acute Effects on Executive Function and Enjoyment. Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 36, 474-485.

[2]. Castelli, D.E., Glowacki, E., Barcelona, J. M., Calvert, H. G. & Hwang, J. (2015). Active Education: Growing Evidence on Physical Activity and Academic Performance. Active Living Research: Promoting activity-friendly communities, Research Brief, produced with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, January 2015.

[3]. Donnelly, J.E., Greene, J.L., Gibson, C.A., et al., 2009. Physical Activity Across the Curriculum (PAAC): a randomized controlled trial to promote physical activity and diminish overweight and obesity in elementary school children. Prev. Med. 49, 336–341.