Thursday, July 18, 2013

Students in every grade level at schools are struggling in class. It’s not because they’re underachievers, or they’re not smart, or they don’t care, it’s because we’re working against them. The longer children and teens are forced to sit and grow roots in their chairs, the harder it will be for them to bloom. There is research that proves that students need adequate amounts of physical activity throughout the school day. Not only do they prevent obesity and obesity related issues, but they perform better academically also. In some cases, more time in physical education leads to improved grades. Drop-out rates were lower for youth who consistently participated in sports. It kept them occupied and motivated to do their work because they had energy and a stable mindset. Children who are more active are quicker to perform simple tasks, and have better working memories and problem solving skills than less-active children. They also perform better on standardized academic tests. It is recommended that all students get at least 60 minutes a day of vigorous or moderate physical activity. Only about half of all school-age children meet this guideline. The way to increase exercise is to promote physical education classes, recess and classroom breaks during the school day, encouraging after-school sports and walking or biking to school would help as well. Even though some children may not want to be active for 6o minutes a day, it is important to remember that it’s very important in their development and that it will help them in a better aspect in their future.