When my child was about to enter preschool, my greatest worry was his inability to stay seated. At just four years old, stillness wasn’t exactly his forte—and to be frank, it still isn’t. It’s quite a challenge to find a four-year-old who can remain still for any extended period. This is simply not typical behavior for children in this age group.
At four, children are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings, and one of the best ways to engage with the world is through movement. Anyone who has spent time with preschoolers knows that trying to keep them seated for too long can feel like an exercise in futility. Yet, this is unfortunately the reality in some educational settings.
Who decided that young children learn best by sitting quietly and being lectured? They clearly haven’t spent a significant amount of time with toddlers, who typically can only manage to stay still for about ten minutes before they start to squirm. Once the squirming begins, any chance of effective teaching goes out the window.
In essence, young children, particularly preschoolers, require physical activity to enhance their learning experience. Scientific research consistently shows a strong link between movement and cognitive development. For instance, the book Teaching with the Brain in Mind dedicates a chapter to explaining how movement aids in learning.
The cerebellum, located at the back of the brain, plays a vital role in motor control. Although it’s only the size of a fist, nearly half of the brain’s neurons are found in the cerebellum. Research led by Dr. Samuel Jones at the University of California demonstrates that there’s a pathway from the cerebellum to areas of the brain responsible for spatial awareness, memory, and focus—all essential skills for young learners.
Numerous studies highlighted in this book reveal how physical activity positively impacts learning among children. Many preschool games may appear to be just fun, but they are, in fact, valuable educational tools. Take Simon Says, for example. This game helps children learn to follow directions while actively engaging them, as missing a cue means losing the game.
Similarly, activities like building with blocks are crucial for developing problem-solving skills. Play is, without a doubt, a form of learning that we must emphasize.
Remaining sedentary throughout the day isn’t beneficial for anyone. Even in traditional office environments, we make a point to move around to maintain our well-being. If we recognize the necessity of movement for ourselves, why do we deny the same freedom to our children?
“When you move, you activate all the nerve cells we need for thinking, and that stimulation prepares them for action,” says Dr. Lisa Greene, a child psychologist. Incorporating physical activity into a child’s day allows them to release pent-up energy. At my son’s preschool, activities shift approximately every 20 minutes, providing a balance between seated learning and active play.
Moreover, a 2017 study published in Pediatrics highlights that physical activity improves classroom productivity. Researchers reviewed 26 studies involving over 10,000 children aged 4 to 13 and found that including physical education in the daily schedule correlated with better academic performance. Interestingly, they also discovered that physical activity enhances math skills, classroom behavior, and reading abilities.
We need to stop placing unrealistic expectations on preschoolers regarding their ability to remain still. Developmentally, it is challenging—if not impossible—for them to do so for extended periods. Some educational institutions are ignoring this reality, which is concerning.
Furthermore, allowing movement can help mitigate behavioral issues in the classroom. When children can express their energy physically, they can concentrate better and reduce interpersonal conflicts. Think about the energy children carry home from school each day; it often manifests in meltdowns or mood swings.
One common argument from schools is the lack of time for physical activity. However, as highlighted by Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative, schools should aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
“Schools often say they’re busy places, and while they appreciate the resources available, they find it overwhelming. We need to simplify access to information,” says Maria Thompson, executive director of Active Schools, which emerged from the “Let’s Move” initiative.
We’re not blaming teachers; many are caught between the need for physical activity and the demands of rigorous curricula. There are only so many hours in the school day, and the pressure to meet high academic standards often overshadows the physical needs of students.
Some resistance also comes from those in authority who, despite overwhelming evidence, remain reluctant to change their approach. They maintain a “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mindset, but the system is indeed fractured.
Fortunately, we know the solutions. It’s time to take action.
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Summary
Preschoolers inherently struggle to sit still due to their developmental stage and need for physical activity to facilitate learning. Research supports the connection between movement and cognitive development, emphasizing the importance of play in the learning process. Schools should adapt their curricula to prioritize physical activity, as doing so can enhance classroom behavior and academic performance.
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