July Newsletter

Jul 27
3 min read

Why Movement Matters Before Learning

Have you ever noticed that children seem to focus better after they've had a chance to run, jump, dance, or play? That's because movement helps prepare the brain for learning.

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improves attention, supports memory, and helps children regulate their emotions. Even a few minutes of active play before homework, therapy sessions, or classroom learning can make a big difference. Research has found that regular physical activity improves children's attention, memory, and overall academic performance. Brief movement breaks during the school day have even been shown to improve concentration and reduce off-task behaviors.

How long can children tpyically concentrate?

Every child is different, but attention spans generally develop with age. A helpful rule of thumb is 2–5 minutes of focused attention per year of age for structured activities.

Age

Typical Attention Span

2–3 years

4–10 minutes

4 years

8–20 minutes

5 years

10–25 minutes

6 years

12–30 minutes

7–8 years

16–40 minutes

9–12 years

20–45 minutes

Remember, these are averages. Children often stay engaged much longer when they are interested, actively involved, and have opportunities to move.

5 easy ways to get the wiggles out

Try one of these activities before homework, therapy, or any task that requires concentration:

Animal Walks – Bear crawls, crab walks, frog jumps, or kangaroo hops.

Dance Party – Play a favorite song and dance for 5–10 minutes.

Obstacle Course – Use pillows, chairs, tape lines, or cones to create a fun course.

Jumping Challenge – 20 jumping jacks, hopscotch, jump rope, or trampoline time.

Ball Games – Tossing, catching, kicking, or dribbling a ball helps improve coordination while burning energy.

The CDC recommends that children ages 3–5 stay active throughout the day, while children ages 6–17 should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.

Brain-boosting foods for better focus

Nutrition plays a major role in concentration. Before learning activities, try foods that provide lasting energy instead of sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes.

Great choices include:

🥚 Eggs (rich in protein and choline)

🫐 Blueberries and strawberries (packed with antioxidants)

🥜 Nuts and seeds (healthy fats and vitamin E)

🥣 Oatmeal (slow-releasing energy)

🥛 Greek yogurt (protein and calcium)

🐟 Salmon (omega-3 fatty acids)

🍎 Apples with peanut butter

🥕 Veggies with hummus

💧 Plenty of water—hydration helps the brain work its best.

A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports healthy brain development and learning.

Children aren't meant to sit still for long periods of time. Their growing brains learn best when movement, nutrition, and play are part of the day. Before asking your child to focus on homework, reading, or therapy activities, spend 5–10 minutes getting the wiggles out. Those few active minutes can lead to calmer bodies, sharper minds, and more successful learning experiences.

Move first. Learn second. Watch the difference!

Easy Family Time Activities!

DIY Smoothie Bowls

Blend:

🍌 Banana

🥭 Mango

🍓 Strawberries

🥛 Greek yogurt

Top with: Granola, Blueberries, Coconut flakes

Have your child name every topping before adding it.

Pair it with Family Charades

Act out: