Active Kids Focus Better in School
P.E. time is constantly being cut or completely removed in too many schools. Computers, TV, and video games frequently outcompete sports for children’s leisure time. Childhood obesity reaches epidemic proportions in America. What can we do before our kids become mashed potatoes, let alone spuds of the couch variety?
A new study shows that an innovative series of exercises, called Energizers, can improve a child’s physical fitness and — this is key for all of us achievement-oriented parents — help a child focus in the classroom (http://www.ecu.edu/cs-admin/news/poe/2007/107/energizers.cfm). Researchers from East Carolina University tested the 10-minute workouts with elementary school students and had positive results. Given the time challenges to kids’ days, this may be a viable option to keep our youth fit in mind and body. You can actually download the exercise instructions here: http://ncpe4me.com/energizers.html.
I’m a father of two and a teacher as well as varsity coach. I think we have demonized p.e. in school. I teach and work at an academic power in Houston. The stigma the “smart or more academicly incline kids” scarf at p.e. or athletics. We have taught them that athletics are for those who can’t progress academicly and that health (social as well as physical) are not important. Regardless if it knocks down the I can’t block-aid that is in there mine. Or if it could change that me attitude found in society. They know nothing of personal sacrafice nor goals that look out of reach that are realisticly in there grasp. We have no future bees. The impossible has sunk into our kids and they put a lid on the jar at a early age. We have to let them believe in the impossible so it can be possible. After all society will not advance if we keep telling our kids they can’t and that is impossible in all points of life. Thank you please let your kids dream and don’t tell them they can’t if you really love them they will.
Comment by Michael Stribling — February 11, 2007 @ 7:37 am
Thanks for the heads up on Energizers for school-agers. As a father of seven with little extra time to spend on exercise, I’ve built short activity bursts into my routine to keep me focused at work, and I’ve encouraged my kids to do the same. I’ve read in several places short bursts can be just as effective as long exercise sessions in maintaining longterm heart health (not to mention mental acuity). I’ve downloaded your program link and my kids and I will take it to heart (no pun intended).
Comment by Dadiator — September 28, 2008 @ 9:56 am