Running = Memory

There was another research study today in a New York Times blog showing the specific connection between physical exercise and brain memory.  The article focuses somewhat on the 'aging' brain, but the findings are good news for our young brains as well.  When our kids work out and play active, physical games in the morning, they are uniquely ready for the academic day. Learning after we work out, and staying physically active in general does wonders for our brain development and retention.

For Upper Elementary and Middle School aged students, its fundamental.  The changes we've observed after adding physical exercise routines to our mornings this year have been wonderful.  Our students are more focused, less antsy and happier overall. The Spark program we love so much goes a step further in their approach to Physical Education and changes it from goals scored to heart rate achieved.

Thing kids do when we let them - Build a model of the White House

An article by Julie Scelfo for the New York Times describes the benefits of woodworking at the kindergarten level.  This group of Brooklyn students takes carpentry to a whole new level.  Using appropriate caution, the exercise shows the amazing power of young students and allows Kinder students to use their hands to orchestrate their learning.  As evidence continues to pour in on how crucial our hands are in our intellectual and social development, the Montessori classroom becomes an even more obvious leader of new 21st century schools.