Education
Related: About this forumThe right — and surprisingly wrong — ways to get kids to sit still in class.
In order to create actual changes to the sensory system that results in improved attention over time, children NEED to experience what we call rapid vestibular (balance) input on a daily basis. In other words, they need to go upside down, spin in circles, and roll down hills. They need authentic play experiences that get them moving in all different directions in order to stimulate the little hair cells found in the vestibular complex (located in the inner ear). If children do this on a regular basis and for a significant amount of time, then (and only then) will they experience the necessary changes needed to effectively develop the balance systemleading to better attention and learning in the classroom.
In other words, adjusting childrens seating and taking quick one-minute movement breaks will offer some support but we will continue to see significant sensory and behavioral problems, as well as a decline in childrens overall health (i.e., rise in obesity, decrease strength, and poor body awareness) if we dont start allowing for adequate time in which children can get up and out of their seats to move.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2014/10/07/the-right-and-surprisingly-wrong-ways-to-get-kids-to-sit-still-in-class/
SheilaT
(23,156 posts)say duct tape, or velcro.
femmocrat
(28,394 posts)We used to walk to school.... I'm sure that burned up a lot of excess energy, too! Kids don't even walk to the school bus anymore. I see the bus stop at every driveway while the children wait in a car with a parent.
I liked the idea of children needing to spin, roll, etc. Schools no longer have swings or monkey bars because of liabilities. We should just wrap them all in bubble wrap, I guess!
yeoman6987
(14,449 posts)And parents are brilliant to keep them in cars especially is less desirable areas. Is it worth the risk to have your child hurt in any way? I hope not.
femmocrat
(28,394 posts)Yes, I advocate pushing kids into traffic.
yeoman6987
(14,449 posts)Jefferson23
(30,099 posts)Should be utilized in all schools.
*Shortened recess times, cutting gym classes, and other specials (i.e., music and art) means we are no longer respecting the needs of the whole child. Our system of testing is failing our children. It fails to test their social skills, their ability to think for themselves, and their physical skills (i.e., strength, endurance, coordination). Arent these just as important as their ability to read, write, and do arithmetic? We need to be careful not to put total emphasis on just a few subjects, while neglecting childrens other needs.
K&R
elleng
(136,629 posts)and WAS part of their early education, every day! (They now have babies of their own.)
'An important part of our Pre-Primary program involves large motor skill development and sensory processing. Our physical education teachers choose specific activities and equipment to build skills, strength, and endurance. The aim is for students to become competent, comfortable, and adept movers.'
http://www.lowellschool.org/Page/Programs/Pre-Primary-School/Specialist-Activities
Jefferson23
(30,099 posts)Thanks for the link, too. Imagine that:
Highlights of a Week
Science + STEM Education
Creative Arts
Spanish
Dance
Music
Physical Education
Library Time