As parents, we know that kids love to move. But as educators who have worked with kids and read the abundant research on the topic, we know that kids NEED to move.
Movement in kids’ earliest years primes the body for learning and activates the vestibular system, core strength, and overall brain functioning. Movement is foundational to learning!
With that in mind, our curriculum is designed to incorporate intentional movement by trained teachers throughout the day with three types of movement: 360° movement, moving to exercise, and moving to integrate. These 3 ways ensure kids are ready to absorb all the information thrown their way!
360° movement
Not just any movement will do. 360° movement is total body movement against gravity, upside down, and through space, building balance in the body and brain and strengthening the processing centers of the brain. Children are going to school with bodies less prepared to perform than at any time in history which is why 360° movement is so important for developing kids. Our classrooms that extend to our 35,000 sq ft gym are the perfect environment for this movement!
Explore further with supporting science: Angela Hanscom TED Talk
move to exercise
Just like adults, kids need movement for exercise. Exercise improves the brain’s potential to log-in and absorb new information, as well as create new neural pathways by making BDNF (Miracle Grow for the brain). Core strength, coordination, and improved attention and motivation are all benefits of exercise that complement early learning.
Explore further with supporting science: Spark by John J. Ratey, MD
move to integrate
Taking in information in a FUN way via physicality, auditory, and visually prepares kids’ bodies and minds in a big way for big Kindergarten. The combination of moving while learning helps our students better process and retain new information that comes their way. You might see this in a classroom when students stand up and learn a song paired with coordinating movements.
Explore further with supporting science: Learning in Motion: Bringing Movement Back into the Classroom
learn more!
Come see how movement primes learning by scheduling a tour of our classroom!
