Research that Benefits Children and Families

The increased focus on early learning standards has resulted in a decline in the amount of time preschoolers’ engage in physical activity. A recent study indicates physical activity in the form of exercise increases preschoolers’ cognitive function. The study examined the impact of acute exercise on preschoolers’ cognitive function. Preschoolers engage in physical activities such as, planned movement programs, recess, physical and center-based activities throughout the day (Palmer, 2013).
During the study preschoolers participated in planned movement programs that were part of the curriculum. They were provided opportunities to exercise while developing movement patterns that promote motor skill development. For thirty minutes the preschoolers engaged in a variety of
 Activities targeting various motor skills such as, hopping from target to target, throwing, dribbling a ball, were found to enhance executive function more than running, jumping in place, or crawling (Palmer, 2013).
This study provides evidence to support children’s participation in physical activity not only for physical well-being but improved brain development as well.
References:
Kara K. Palmer, M. W. (2013). Acute exercise enhances preschoolers ability to sustain attention. Retrieved from http://journals.humankinetics.com/AcuCustom/Sitename/Documents/DocumentItem/08_Miller_JSEP_0267.pdf


Comments

BarbTymchak Olafson said…
I like the subject of your post. Lack of physical activity is something that is impacting our society as a whole. I will share the article that you cited.
November 17, 2013 at 7:49 AM
Anonymous said…
I really enjoyed your topic this week. As the chair of the Early Childhood Collaborative of Southington, we are always looking for ways to increase school readiness, including teaching children about healthy living. We are currently looking to work with another group in town, called Activate Southington, and we hope to see a downward trend in childhood obesity once we begin to institute healthy living programs in the early childhood group.
November 17, 2013 at 4:08 PM
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