Exercise Boosts Young Brains

When children run, jump, climb or play tag, they are also improving their ability to think. According to a recent study by researchers at the University of Illinois, physical activity helps children develop their brain circuitry, thinking skills and academic performance.

Researchers recruited 220 eight and nine year-old children. Kids in this age group typically experience a leap in their brain’s executive functioning, which helps them handle mental multitasking and maintain concentration. Researchers had half the students participate in structured after-school physical activities while the other half continued with their normal routines.

The children wore pedometers and heart-rate monitors and were guided through activities like tag and dribbling soccer balls in order to enhance endurance and motor skills. Each after-school session lasted for two hours and went on for a whole school year. Not only did the children who participated in the after-school program become more physically fit, they also improved their ability to block out irrelevant information and concentrate on the task at hand. Brain development was much more rapid in the students who ran and played extensively.

Children’s Council helps parents and caregivers keep their kids moving and playing! Our interactive playgroups demonstrate how children learn through playing. And check out our Growing Healthy Kids fair on November 15 for lots of practical tips on being active and healthy.