This page offers links to relevant news stories about classroom physical activity, school-based physical activity, and youth activity and fitness.
Edutopia: 4 Brain Breaks for Different Classroom Needs (Feb. 29, 2024)
Classrooms in Motion note: We recommend the term BRAIN BOOSTER because movement and activity is not a break – it’s an integral complement to academic instruction. “These brain breaks are designed to serve different purposes, and selecting the right one at the right time can yield positive results.” Link to article
Spectrum News: Morning Milers (June 9, 2023)
Students (and parents!) at this elementary school in Wilmington, NC start their day with movement – thanks to a program started by the PE teacher. Link to article/video
KSAT: Reclaiming Recess: Playtime impacts class time (Aug. 30, 2022)
“…other states require some sort of physical activity at the elementary school level. Experts say this trend will not only help a child’s physical wellbeing, but their mental health as well.” Link to article
The Bristol Cable: Why PE isn’t just about exercising – and needs protecting (Jan. 31, 2022)
This article, from England, addresses the impact of COVID on decreased physical education time, and supports the need to retain and maintain student opportunities for physical activity. Link to article
The Jerusalem Post: Sleep, social life and exercise linked to good mental health among youth (Jan. 25, 2022)
This article recaps recently-published research that determined “meaningful, supportive relationships with family and friends – along with physical activity and better sleep – appeared to shield against the harmful effects of the pandemic on the mental health of children young adults.” Link to article
NIH News Release: Social connectedness, sleep, and physical activity associated with better mental health among youth during the COVID-19 pandemic (Jan. 24, 2022) Link to article
Voice of San Diego: It Does More Harm Than Good for School Districts to Shut Down Some Sports, Activities (Jan. 11, 2022)
This opinion piece posits that disallowing students to engage in extracurricular and off season sports is counterproductive to the intention of decreasing disease transmission. It further urges schools and districts to prioritize healthy physical activity for students. Link to article
NWI Times: Studies prove it: Kids are healthier and better off overall when they’re active (Jan. 2, 2022)
“As 2022 gets underway, we need to get children back to playing their games — for fun and good health.” Link to article
The Daily Progress: WATCH NOW: Area schools take to the outdoors, for learning opportunities and student wellbeing (June 7, 2021)
“Teachers took advantage of the outdoors to give students more opportunities to get their hands dirty, have fun with their peers and see how concepts learned in the classroom play out in the real world.” Link to article
healthline: How physical activity helps children do better in school, life (May 19, 2021)
This article overviews a recent study and shares that conclusion that “Physical activity in childhood can help youngsters develop their emotional and behavioral regulation skills, which play a crucial role in their academic achievement.” The article considers the mechanisms for this link and shares tips for increasing youth physical activity. Link to article
The Spokesman-Review: Family walks: How to bond, boost health and improve mood together (Apr. 26, 2021)
“For the past year, children’s activity options have been limited, with sports, camps and other activities curtailed, but family walks are a solution worth hanging onto even after we return to something looking more like normal…” Link to article
The Guardian: ‘Let children play’: the educational message from across Europe (Apr. 23, 2021)
This article offers insight into the Finland school systems, where the focus for younger children is not on formal educational pursuits, but on play – learning important skills for communication, resourcefulness, and activity. This foundation sets students up for future academic achievement, as Finland ranks high in global education. Link to article
The Sydney Morning Herald: Brief, intense exercise helps students cope with HSC and life stress (Apr. 20, 2021)
“Year 11 students who did short bursts of intense exercise during class a few times a week coped better with stress, were more engaged in their learning, felt fitter and sharper, and had fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression.” Link to article
World Health Organization: WHO reviews effect of physical activity on enhancing academic achievement at school (Feb. 18, 2021)
“Regular physical activity, increasing physical education and active classrooms not only protect schoolchildren’s health but also improve their academic achievement. This is the finding of a wide-ranging review on Physical Activity and Academic Achievement carried out by WHO/Europe as part of its drive to ensure that young people get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day.” Link to article
spaces4learning: Despite virtual learning, P.E. class is still in session (Feb. 16, 2021)
This article addresses the necessity for students to engage in movement, especially during virtual school programming, and the creative modifications that can be made to enable physical education at home. As quoted, physical educators strive to promote physical literacy – or being active throughout the lifespan – and that means finding ways to be active regardless of circumstances. Link to article
The Herald News: ‘It is really important that students find a way to stay active’: Phys-Ed teachers, coaches trying to keep kids from sliding into obesity (Oct. 21, 2020)
With many students learning remotely, physical activity may be limited without access to physical education and organized athletics. It is important to maintain levels of physical activity, and think of creative ways for students to exercise at home. Link to article
The Spokesman-Review: Family Fun: Re-energizing remotely – Make recess a family activity while learning and working at home (Sept. 28, 2020)
For children who are learning from home and parents who are working from home, engaging in physical activity together can have multiple benefits. Link to article
Texas A&M Today: Keeping students active online or in-person (Sept. 8, 2020)
This article considers the impact of COVID circumstances on youth physical activity, and the importance of engaging students in movement. Link to article *disclaimer: I am featured in this piece.
American Heart Association: How to keep kids active while learning from home – and why that’s vital (Sept. 2, 2020)
Supporting physical activity in the absence of school-based movement opportunities is important for students’ health. Link to article *disclaimer: My interview with AHA is featured in this piece.
News Star: Active play, even while physical distancing, necessary for kids, families (Aug. 1, 2020)
During this pandemic, it’s important for children to engage in physical activity, and for families to be active together. “Free play allows kids to stay active while also letting them be the creators of their experiences. So, while families may not be able to participate in private lessons, organized practices or virtual training, they can still play, have fun, interact and develop.” Link to article
PsychCentral: Regular physical activity can enhance cognition in kids (July 16, 2020)
This article relates the details from a recent Japanese study and explains that “the finding that daily physical activity can improve executive function in children who might need it the most has some practical implications.” Link to article
Another review of the original research can be found here: Regular physical activity seems to enhance cognition in children who need it most, from ScienceDaily
The Conversation: Kids’ physical activity before age 5 matters so much because of the developing brain (July 9, 2020)
When considering the activities of young children, adults and caregivers play a critical role. This article explains the link between physical activity and the formation of neural pathways, the increase in sedentary behavior, and the importance of adult intervention in promoting physical literacy. Link to article
The New York Times: Getting kids to move more (May 7, 2020)
This article poses the question: “how do we encourage young people to be more active, without making activity one more draining chore?” Suggestions are then provided from “exercise scientists and coaches, some of them also parents” to help increase movement among our younger generation. Link to article
The New York Times: The benefits of exercise for children’s mental health (Mar. 2, 2020)
“…even light activity — and a corresponding decrease in the amount of time that kids spent being sedentary — was linked to better mental health as they got older.” Link to article
Education Week: Doubling recess time to put play back in the school day (Feb. 25, 2020)
Recess and physical education are not created equal, and both have independent benefits. Unstructured play allows children to be both creative and active while providing opportunities for conflict resolution, negotiation, and teamwork. Based on these data, Virginia Beach City schools are increasing recess minutes. Link to article
MinnNews: Too much sitting linked to increased risk of depression in teens, study finds (Feb. 12, 2020)
“Being sedentary — spending a lot of time sitting — puts teenagers at an increased risk of depression… however, that breaking up that sedentary behavior with even light physical activity — such as walking at a slow pace, doing chores around the house or playing a musical instrument — helps reduce the risk.” Link to article
Link to original research article discussed in MinnNews story, above.
Daily Republic: Eye on education: Exercise improves learning (Jan. 30, 2020)
This article, much of it in ‘research speak’, offers “a compelling rationale for treating physical education and related activities as co-equal components of a robust learning curriculum.” In other words? Physical activity should hold the same priority as reading or math. Link to article
Psychology Today: Kids who aren’t glued to their classroom chairs learn better (Oct. 26, 2019)
“The main takeaway of this [newly published review of research] is that weaving physical activity into school lessons is linked to better test scores than having students sit still through an entire class.” Link to article
The Philadelphia Inquirer: Physical activity improves kids’ social, emotional, and academic performance (Sept. 3, 2019)
This opinion piece, coinciding with the start of the school year, explains the “magic” of physical activity and shares why Philadelphia (and the US) should use the Finnish education system as a model. Link to article
Spirit Magazine: Taking a stand (Summer 2019)
To address an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, Dr. Mark Benden of Texas A&M University, an ergonomics expert and inventor, wanted to encourage more standing rather than less sitting. His standing desks are now in classrooms, and research supports increased movement and a decrease in BMI among student users. Link to article
My SHAPE America: Boost your elementary physical education program with classroom movement (July 23, 2019)
This blog is an excellent ‘primer’ for classroom physical activity, providing a quick snapshot of reasons and outlining facilitators and barriers to implementation. Link to blog
For a more in-depth look at facilitators and barriers to movement integration at the elementary level, view this article.
healthline: Teachers withholding recess as punishment does more harm than good (May 30, 2019)
Laws mandating recess have been a hot topic in state legislatures. This article addresses the importance of recess, shares parent and teacher opinions, and offers tips for teachers to support student health and movement. Link to article
KQED News: How movement and exercise helps kids learn (May 21, 2019)
This article introduces a neuroscientist who found she was more productive with exercise. This led her in a new research direction. Her call for movement in schools is outlined here. “She argues that movement breaks in K-12 classrooms support the deep kind of learning that they should be striving for.” And adults, including teachers, need the same! Link to article
The New York Times: To move is to thrive. It’s in our genes. (May 15, 2019)
“…being active was built into us ‘from the beginning,’ [Dr. Lightfoot] says, helping to make us human.” Link to article (free account required for access)
DailyTrib.com: Marble Falls Middle School yoga class stretches beyond physical education requirements (Feb. 4, 2019)
In proposing a yoga class for middle school girls, this teacher discovered it met state physical education requirements…but that wasn’t her main goal. Instead: “She wanted to help middle school girls find a way to grow physically and mentally. Yoga offered such a path.” Link to article
UT Health News: Research shows teens too low on sleep, activity, and too high on screen time (Feb. 4, 2019)
New research analyzing physical activity, sleeping, and screen time finds that only 1 in 20 adolescents in the United States meet concurrent recommendations, and that boys (7%) are slightly more likely to meet all three guidelines than girls (3%). Dr. Knell, lead author and research fellow at UT School of Public Health, says, “The combined effect on children’s overall health could be considerable in terms of their physical health, emotional well-being, and academic performance.” Link to article
lohud. USA Today: A hop, skip and jump away from doing better in class (Jan. 23, 2019)
This article explains a ‘sensory’ hallway with colorful decals on the floor of an elementary school to promote movement. The hallway is being used both for students who need to reset attention during class time, and when traveling throughout the school building. Initial responses from both students and teachers is positive. Link to article
Whidbey Times: Running club offers health, educational benefits (Jan. 18, 2019)
An elementary school PE teacher supervises a marathon kids club at her school to promote social, emotional, and physical health among students. Link to article
Top Hat: Why active learning matters right now (Nov. 18, 2018)
“…faculty and students need to step out of that comfort zone together—and right now, that means putting active learning into practice in the classroom.” Link to article/video
CNN: ‘Move more, sit less,’ government says in new exercise guidelines (Nov. 12, 2018)
In response to the new physical activity guidelines, this article reviews the guidelines and the benefits of physical activity. Notably, Dr. Giroir of Health and Human Services reports “everyone can dramatically improve their health just by moving — anytime, anywhere, and by any means that gets you active.” Link to article
Reuters: Docs should screen kids’ daily physical activity as a ‘vital sign’ for health (Nov. 12, 2018)
A recent study assessed physical activity patterns in youth and concluded that medical professionals should be using physical activity levels as a screening tool for health and wellness. Link to article
Pantagraph: Oakland School program gets kids’ bodies moving, brains working (Oct. 29, 2018)
Students in a before school program to get them moving and prepared for their day of learning report an appreciation for the opportunity, while teachers and administration provided support to expand the program from one class to classes across several grade levels. Link to article
White Mountain Independent: Blue Ridge Junior High students are “riding for focus” (Oct. 16, 2018)
A partnership between Specialized bikes, a local bike shop, and the school district offers students at Blue Ridge Junior High with a program designed to link exercise to multiple dimensions of health. The main goals are to enhance cognitive focus, build self-esteem and confidence, and teach bike safety. Link to article
U.S. News & World Report: Encouraging physical activity in children (Sept. 30, 2018)
This article is actually geared toward parents. It provides five tips to encouraging children to engage in physical activity, and encouraged parents to self-assess their own behaviors as a role model for children. Link to article
Science Daily: Even mild physical activity immediately improves memory function:
Now you just need to remember to exercise! (Sept. 24, 2018)
In a recently published study, researchers at the University of California Irvine “found that even very light workouts can increase the connectivity between parts of the brain responsible for memory formation and storage” among healthy young adults. Link to article
Medical Xpress: New school of thought: In-class physical exercise won’t disrupt learning, teaching (Sept. 17, 2018)
This article discusses results of a study implementing short physical activity breaks into elementary school classrooms, finding them both feasible and beneficial. Link to article
The Post: Physical activity and wellness classes help students focus on academics (Sept. 13, 2018)
Ohio University offers physical activity courses that earn academic credit…but are free for students! The intent behind the offerings is “to become healthy, active, mentally and physically fit, and to focus on their academics.” Link to article
MiddleWeb: Why physical literacy matters for our students (Sept. 11, 2018)
In this article, physical literacy is defined and then addressed from an educational perspective. Physical literacy promotes lifelong engagement in movement, and influences holistic health. Link to article
MultiBriefs: Flexible learning starts with flexible classroom spaces (Aug. 13, 2018)
While not directly addressing classroom physical activity, this article shares some whys and hows of flexible seating, which inherently includes a decrease in sedentary behavior. Link to article
The Washington Post: There’s a simple way to make children more fit. It’s called the Daily Mile. (Aug. 12, 2018)
This Scottish initiative is catching on around the world. In this article, review the backstory on the initiation of the idea and some preliminary results from current program sites. Link to article
nj.com: Recess is now mandatory at N.J. elementary schools (Aug. 10, 2018)
A newly passed New Jersey law, to be adopted this school year, “requires elementary schools to hold at least a 20-minute recess period each day and restricts the reasons schools can take away recess from an individual student.” Link to article
The Globe and Mail: Getting kids outside and active could help with brain health: Participaction report (updated July 8, 2018)
In this article, Mark Tremblay answers questions “how physical activity affects mental health and what parents can do to help make their kids more active.” Link to article
Austin 360: Exercise, talk go together in a free Marathon Kids program (July 3, 2018)
Marathon Kids offers 26 topics of conversation for parents and children to engage in over one mile at a time. After all topics are discussed, participants will have completed 26 miles! (Just 0.2 more for a full marathon over the summer.) Link to article
Medical News Bulletin: Implementing physical activity in schools is important for mental health (June 22, 2018)
Physical activity may reduce the risk of mental health issues among adolescents, and this article suggests policy is needed to promote activity during school hours. Link to article
GOOD Sports: Here’s what happens when kids run for 15 minutes a day (June 18, 2018)
This article shares the story of the Daily Mile, and why the authors believe it is worthwhile. Link to article
The New York Times: Is it actually smart to sit still? (May 31, 2018)
This essay is from a 15 year old about sitting for extended periods in the classroom setting. She points to research about the benefits of movement on concentration and ends with the question: When will school be designed for the students? Link to article (free account required for access)
The Times: PE teacher mindful of minds (May 23, 2018)
This Illinois PE teacher was honored for supporting academics through physical education. Link to article
Knox News: Tom Cronan Act, requiring kids to have PE classes, will benefit national security (May 13, 2018)
Tennessee just passed a law enacting a minimum time for physical education in schools, taught by a licensed physical educator. This article links physical activity and fitness in childhood to an effective military. Link to article
The Conversation: When kids run for 15 in school every day, here’s what happens to their health (May 10, 2018)
The Daily Mile is a school-based program where students walk or run for 15 minutes at school, not related to physical education time. Here, learn the backstory and initial evidence about the impact. Link to article
CNN: Move over, ‘sit still’! Why kids needs to move in school (May 3, 2018)
This article, with a 2:43min news video about standing desks in middle school, offers a brief background of classroom-based physical activity, challenges, research, and support for implementation. Link to article (with video)
CNN: How much exercise your kid needs, based on the latest research (Apr. 24, 2018)
This story, geared toward parents, offers strategies to assist children in engaging in physical activity. Link to story
NOLA: The Times-Picquanne: School-based yoga can help manage stress and anxiety in children (Apr. 11, 2018)
In a Tulane University study, third grade students, identified as needing support, who participated in yoga had decreased stress and anxiety levels compared to students who did engage in yoga, but continued to receive traditional services. These results highlight the potential to impact psychological health at school. Link to article
The Washington Times: Recess making comeback in public schools: ‘Children do better when they have a break’ (Apr. 10, 2018)
As states across the nation implement recess policy, this article offers an overview of the considerations for and parent opinions of mandating recess minutes. Link to article
Club Industry: Children who receive physical education are more likely to be active adults, PAC study says (Apr. 10, 2018)
This short article with accompanying slideshow considers exposure to PE among 6-17 year olds and the accompanying health outcomes in adulthood. As per the article: “Since PE is a predictor of activity in adulthood and lower-income households depend on PE as their source of fitness, how is it that PE continues to disappear in schools?” Link to article
Greenfield Reporter: On your mark, get set … Mahar seniors start running club for elementary students (Apr. 9, 2018)
In a great collaboration across ages, seniors in high schools are facilitating a running club for sixth graders during recess. The middle school has after school running programs, which the high schooolers felt limited participation due to transportation barriers. The recess program has been in effect for just over a month, but initial response is positive. Link to article
TED: Why dance class is just as important as math class (Mar. 21, 2018)
This article, supporting the multi-dimensional benefits of dance and dance education, is an excerpt from a book entitled “You, your child and school: Navigate your way to the best education.” Link to article
The New York Times: Why kids shouldn’t sit still in class (Mar. 21, 2018)
“…evidence builds that taking brief activity breaks during the day helps children learn and be more attentive in class, and a growing number of programs designed to promote movement are being adopted in schools.” Link to article (free account required for access)
Montreal Gazette: The more kids exercise, the better they learn (Mar. 18, 2018)
This article provides an overview of activity in schools, opening with “Ask any teacher and they will tell you that kids are more focused after recess. Bodies that move are bodies more equipped to learn. Yet 73 percent of the average school day is spent sitting, despite an overwhelming amount of data demonstrating that active kids have active minds.” Link to article
Live Well Nebraska: ‘Safe Routes’ program encourages Omaha students to walk, bike to school (Mar. 18, 2018)
Starting with a ‘walk audit’, this initiative looked at barriers to active school transport for three local schools. Action plans are being put in place, with implementation coming after this necessary preparation. Link to article
Dallas WFAA: What balls replace chairs in some Dallas classrooms (Mar. 14, 2018)
In this seventh grade math class at an all-boys school, traditional chairs are out and balls, boards, and bikes are in. Link to article (with video)
Goshen News: Students run the halls of a local school to get fit (Mar. 9, 2018)
Run the Halls, a free after school program currently in six elementary schools in Indiana, has successfully impacted students’ fitness and has received positive feedback. Link to article
WJHL: “Morning Mile” gets hundreds of kids in our region moving before school (Feb. 26, 2018)
“Hundreds of kids in over 80 schools in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia participate in the Morning Mile, getting to school 30 minutes early to run a mile.” Link to article (with video)
The Hechinger Report: How a growing number of states are hoping to improve kids’ brains: Exercise (Feb. 21, 2018)
This article provides insight into the background and benefit of incorporating physical activity throughout the school day. Specifically, it addresses the connection between physical fitness and cognition, and the use of brain science to influence school policy. Link to article
NY Times: A before-school exercise program may help children thrive (Feb. 14, 2018)
“A supervised exercise program that gets young children running and playing for an hour before school could make them happier and healthier, while also jibing with the needs and schedules of parents and school officials…” As expected, however, results depend on the actual participation level of children. Link to article
northjersey.com: Kilburn Middle School parents want more physical activity for their children (Feb. 14, 2018)
In New Jersey, parents are signing a petition to increase the opportunity for physical education to year-round. While year-round physical activity is a positive step, it appears this is a health or physical education proposition, which is not ideal. Link to article
Fox25 News KOKH: Oklahoma elementary schools see test score improvement with new action-based learning labs (Feb. 9, 2018)
In these learning-lab classrooms, “the goal isn’t just to get exercise. Study after study shows that by pairing physical activity with learning, kids often do better in school. Each station also helps students develop important skills like balance, rhythm, and visual tracking.” This article, with video, describes the labs and associated results on academic performance. Link to article
TVH11: New law’s pilot program makes recess longer for 32 Arkansas schools (Feb. 6, 2018)
“Recess time will be tripled next year for some Arkansas public elementary schools. This pilot program is part of a 2017 Arkansas law to give students at least an hour of unstructured physical activity during school.” Link to article
InspireMore: Texas elementary school triples recess time and the results are incredible (Feb. 6, 2018)
In an elementary school in Forth Worth, TX, the schedule will eventually include four recess breaks for students that target empathy, team play, and social skills. These breaks are being linked to increased focus among students and improved classroom behavior. Link to article
Daily Herald: Bike desks used to increase student focus at Green Oaks school (Feb. 2, 2018)
This article highlights flexible seating options in classrooms, as implemented in this K-8 school. Positives are reported, along with student reactions. Link to article (with video)
Williston Herald: Get moving! Learn! Classes at Stony Creek incorporate physical activity into the lesson plan (Jan. 24, 2018)
Content blocked. Link to article
Stowe Today News & Citizen: More playtime equals more learning (Jan. 18, 2018)
At a school in Vermont, a new initiative called Get Up and Move is “jumpstarting brains” to improve learning preparedness among students. The program started with 16 students and is now up to over 40. Creators hope to expand both time spent in activity and number of students involved. Link to article
Mankato Free Press: St. Peter elementary school gets creative to get students moving more (Jan. 14, 2018)
“For 20 minutes every afternoon the St. Peter area second, third and fourth-graders take a break from their studies to get their bodies moving.” The program, being called Take 20, rotates students through five activity stations throughout the week. While it does take time away from academics, staff praise the multi-dimenstional benefits of activity, including an increase in learning preparedness. Link to article
HealthDay News: Exercise boosts kids’ brain health, too (Jan. 5, 2018)
Findings from a research study are applied in this article, highlighting the cognitive and academic benefits of physical activity for children. “Active children do better in class and on tests because exercise seems to lead to larger brain volumes in areas associated with memory and thinking functions, such as behavior and decision-making. Active kids also appear to have better concentration and longer attention spans…” Link to story
While implying the study is recent, this article appears to be citing a monograph published in 2014.
Nursing Times: Exercising at own pace boosts a school child’s ability to learn (Dec. 28, 2017)
“School pupils’ attention and memory improves after exercise and the best responses to tests come after physical activity set at their own pace, as opposed to exhaustive exercise, a study has found.” Link to story
Jewish Link of New Jersey: More recess leads to increased learning (Dec. 28, 2017)
This article overviews evidence on the impact of recess, including an investigative report that found recess resulted in physical, social, and cognitive benefits. Link to story
Reuters: Kinds who get moving may also get better grades (Dec. 8, 2017)
“At a time when many schools struggle to set aside time for gym classes amid a push to raise test scores by devoting more time to academics, [findings from a new research study] offer fresh evidence that physical activity is one way to help boost kids’ grades.” Link to story
Star Tribute: Exercise improves test scores, study of Minnesota students finds (Dec. 6, 2017)
“It’s no secret that physically active kids are healthier, but a state study released Wednesday found that they also do better on reading and writing, and even school attendance.” This article shares how 14 schools implemented physical activity programs as a result of a grant, and the results after a three-year period. Link to story
U.S. News: Oklahoma elementary school brings exercise to classrooms (Dec. 4, 2017)
At Lake Park Elementary school in Putnam City school, there is a classroom that “is arranged into dozens of stations, each with a dedicated physical activity designed to stimulate brain activity and mesh physical and mental exercise.” Link to story
Miami Herald: Get your children moving – it may just improve their grades (Nov. 14, 2017)
In support of increasing physical activity in children, this article provides a summary of the benefits and targets the association between activity and academic performance. The conclusion highlights activity as a way to enhance the overall health and happiness of children. Link to story
District Administration Magazine: Lawmakers requiring more recess in schools (Oct. 25, 2017)
This article takes a look at recess trends in the U.S. and the concept of free play. Link to story
TIME: Is recess important for kids or a waste of time? Here’s what the research says (Oct. 23, 2017)
This article (with a two minutes video!) highlights associations between recess and academic performance and classroom behavior – so say yes to recess. Link to story
Sonoma Index-Tribune: Sonoma students start the day with movement (Oct. 2, 2017)
This California elementary school becomes the latest school to be “in motion” using the My School in Motion program. Students spend the first 15 minutes of their school day engaged in physical activity. Link to story
Las Cruces Sun-News: How physical activity can boost young minds (Sept. 23, 2017)
This article provides an overview of the benefits of physical activity in elementary schools and explains that “Las Cruces Public Schools is working hard to provide more healthy opportunities for children by providing all activity equipment for each interested school to host healthy celebrations” as a way to increase student activity levels. Link to story
Spartanburg Herald Journal: Schools try balancing learning with play (Sept. 17, 2017)
“Schools across the country and the Upstate are working to get students more active as a growing body of research shows it boosts their academic performance.” Link to story
The Sydney Morning Herald: Physical activity is as important as literacy and numeracy, says leading academic (Sept. 10, 2017)
At this school in Australia, students have the opportunity to engage in physical activity at least once per hour. “The school-wide approach is being led by the physical education department, which has been trying to educate teachers in all subject areas on the importance of movement for children’s overall development.” Link to story
SHAPE America: Students in Baton Rouge elementary school get a “jump” start on learning (2017 case study)
In this Louisiana elementary school, the PE teacher engages students in physical movement before the school day in the interim between drop off and commencement of the first academic period. Teachers report positive results of this programming – students are more prepared to learn than they were when this interim period was used for quiet reading. Link to PDF story
Runner’s World: Standing all day is twice as bad as sitting for your heart (August 24, 2017)
Highlighting the “pendulum” of health advice, this article shares research in response to the recent evidence and news about the dangers of sitting. Here, the detrimental aspects of being on your feet all day long are discussed. The author proposes the ‘truth’ is likely somewhere in the middle, supporting the accuracy of the often used phrased “everything in moderation”. Link to story
Romper: Here are all the things that happen to kids when they don’t get recess (July 27, 2017)
By presenting results from several studies regarding the impact of recess cuts, this article presents the need for physical activity in non-scientific terms, which continues to bring the “recess issue” into mainstream conversation. Link to story
Loughborough University News: Daily movement programme has positive impact on children’s learning (July 5, 2017)
Researchers from this university in the UK created ‘Movement for Learning’, a daily opportunity for students to engage in gross and fine motor skills. Preliminary results suggest an improved readiness for school and learning preparedness. Link to story
Philly.com: Philly doctors are now prescribing park visits to city kids (July 5, 2017)
This article provides an interesting approach that promotes the recommendation of 60 minutes per day in outdoor play, extending the recommendation for physical activity to specify an outdoor location. Link to story
The Advocate: School recess time is not as common as it used to be in Louisiana; here’s why (June 25, 2017)
This article discusses the issue of recess, and time allotted to physical activity in schools, from different perspectives at the state and local level. It provides some research background on the need for children to engage in activity, and offers data on state, national, and international recess and activity minutes. Link to story
City of Fort Worth News: Seven Fort Worth elementary school receive funding to create safer routes for pedestrians, cyclists (June 23, 2017)
Active transportation to and from school is an important component in a comprehensive school physical activity plan. This article overviews funding received by schools as part of the Safe Routes to School project. Link to archived story
The Sacramento Bee: Why it’s so bad that children get too much homework, not enough exercise (June 21, 2017)
This opinion piece supports the need for more activity, less sitting in school because childhood is the best time to build bone mass to decrease the likelihood of osteoporosis in older adulthood. Link to story
Medical News Today: Teens get as much physical activity as 60-year-olds, study shows (June 19, 2017)
“Lack of physical activity is a risk factor for many serious conditions. The fact that neither adults nor teenagers get as much exercise as they should is, perhaps, not very surprising. But new research shows that the situation might be a lot more worrying than previously believed.” Link to story
The New York Times Magazine: Losing fact, gaining brain power, on the playground (June 16, 2017)
Results of an active after school program where children played tag and other games show an increase in cognitive functioning. Link to story (free account required for access)
Chalkbeat: Can more movement and computers help turn around this struggling school? The principal thinks so. (June 14, 2017)
This story shares how one elementary school in Indianapolis is trying innovative methods for student engagement. Link to story
Boston Globe: More towns tell students: It’s time to play (Apr. 12, 2017)
“Elementary school students in Medway are now spending an extra 10 minutes a day outside for recess, a move parents and school officials hope will lead to improved social and emotional growth.” Link to story
Oregon State University: Adolescents with frequent PE more fit, more informed about physical activity’s role in health (Apr. 12, 2017)
This article shares findings about the impact of PE and the implications of lack of awareness about physical activity guidelines. Link to story
OPB: Oregon lawmakers consider bill to delay, relax physical education requirements (Apr. 11, 2017)
In 2007, policy was enacted in Oregon to require that all schools engage students in a minimum amount of physical education as of next fall. Yet, even with a decade to plan, many districts are still unprepared to offer the required PE. Link to story
The Conversation: We asked children why they don’t get enough exercise – here’s what they said (Apr. 6, 2017)
This article shares results of a study that asked children about barriers to physical activity – and found that screen time and hectic schedules are the two main reasons for a lack of activity engagement. Based upon these barriers, suggestions to help increase physical activity in children are offered. Link to story
Edutopia: No grade is too early for flexible seating (Apr. 3, 2017)
From kindergarten through college, flexible seating can work with your learning environment to enhance student learning. Link to story
The New York Times: Why kids shouldn’t sit still in class (Mar. 21, 2017)
This article provides a nice overview on the need to increase movement during classroom time to benefit health and learning, citing several professional experts. Link to story (free account required for access)
Chalkbeat: Tennessee lawmakers revise school recess law to strike the right balance on playtime (Mar. 20, 2017)
In a follow-up from the article of Feb. 15, this story shares the outcome of Tennessee’s Senate vote on the recess policy. Recess minutes are still mandated, but teachers will now have more autonomy on implementation. Link to story
KATU2: PPS expects to make big cuts to physical education next school year (Mar. 19, 2017)
In Portland Public Schools in Oregon, massive budget cuts are expected to impact physical education opportunities for students. Link to story
MarketWatch: In-classroom physical activity studies show reading scores are up, BMI is down (Feb. 28, 2017)
This article provides recent results of a study using GoNoodle: “Kids playing GoNoodle scored 23 percent better in reading skills; 13 percent improvement in normal weight (measured by BMI) among kids playing GoNoodle in Ft. Worth, TX.” Link to story
CBS46 News: Lawmaker wants to mandate recess in Georgia schools (Feb. 27, 2017)
Legislation on recess has become a ‘hot topic’ recently and this news story explains how one representative is pushing for a policy to make recess, currently an optional event in Georgia, mandatory across the state. Link to story
WCIA3/Illinois homepage: Military weighs in on reduced PE requirements (Feb. 22, 2017)
This interesting news video, and corresponding story, offers a military perspective on a potential reduction in mandated physical education in Illinois. Link to story
NY1: Olympic Silver ovingedalist Wants to Bring Fencing to Underserved City Schools (Feb. 17, 2017)
“Now in its fifth year — and providing programs for 10 New York City schools this year — Fencing in the Schools trains physical education teachers in the sport…” Link to story
Chalkbeat: Tennessee required more recess, but teachers now say it’s too much (Feb. 15, 2017)
Tennessee was in the news in 2016 as a progressive state recognizing the importance of physical activity at school in policy. This article presents an updated legislative perspective on amendments to previously passed recess policy. “Physical activity is so important for the kids, and we definitely want that…But at the same time, we have to protect instructional time, too.” Link to story
The University of Kansas: Study upsets beliefs about feelings and exercise probability (Feb. 13, 2017)
“A pilot study tracking adolescents’ internal psychological states around engaging in physical activity suggests that prevailing assumptions about how to increase physical activity might need a reboot.” Link to story
*Alternate article about study from PsychCentral: What motivates teens to exercise? Link to story
The Parkersburg News and Sentinel: Marietta’s Ewing School gets kids into shape with yoga (Feb. 13, 2017)
This story shares how an elementary school in West Virginia engages students in movement while watching a movie projected on a large screen. ““A lot of people boo-hoo technology for keeping kids glued to the TV but this is opening up a whole world of dance, rhythm and activity.” Anecdotal results suggest kids are also moving more at home, and enjoying the physical activity. Link to story
Parade Magazine: 19 simple ways to think faster (Feb. 3, 3017)
“Wouldn’t it be terrific to be able to make great decisions in a snap? You can start thinking faster and more effectively immediately with one step: Get moving.” Link to story
*Same but different article: 12 ways to think faster (Feb. 5, 2017) Link to story
Fox 25 WFXT: School recess helps kids get a leg up on life, new report says (Feb. 2, 2017)
“Recess is more than just a break in the school day. It’s a crucial part of students’ development and helps children get a head start on staying active for life, according to researchers.” Link to story
ScaryMommy: Texas school triples recess time and sees immediate positive results in kids (n.d.)
This commentary offers insight into the anecdotal results of offering students four recesses per day. Link to story
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: CDC joins health educators to expand and enhance recess for all students (Feb. 2, 2017)
“Only eight states in the country require recess for students during the school day, prompting SHAPE America to team up with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to advocate for recess for students in all grades, deeming it a ‘critical’ part of the school day.” Link to story
Runner’s World: So simple it’s brilliant: Schools worldwide buy into “The Daily Mile” (Dec. 15, 2016)
“The idea was to improve fitness and social and emotional health, and to combat obesity. But equally important … was that the program be utterly simple. Fifteen minutes, outside, every day. No gym clothes, no fancy facility, no competition, no rigid schedule, no additional staff, no cost.” Link to story
Health Day: 9 of 10 U.S. teens don’t get enough exercise (Sept. 26, 2016)
“Over 90 percent of U.S. high school students don’t get enough exercise to stay fit and healthy, and the pattern persists after they graduate, a new study finds.” Link to story
Chalkbeat: Reading, writing and aerobics: How a popular Indy school uses movement to help kids learn (September 26, 2016)
In this SUPER school in Indianapolis, “nearly every class … has physical activity built into the day, with students walking, dancing and stomping as they study English, math and history.” Link to story
K-12 Tech Decisions: Standing desks at school could be the cure to childhood obesity (September 19, 2016)
And even more press for standing desks in elementary schools (see previous links below). This commentary offers an interesting editorial about the concept and the data. Link to story
Fox News Health/Reuters: Classroom standing desks may help kids slim down (September 6, 2016)
More press for the study on standing desks in elementary classrooms! This article highlights that standing desks can decrease sedentary behavior among students during school without detracting from academic class time. Link to story
Houston Chronicle: Texas A&M study recommends ‘standing desks’ in elementary schools citing health benefits (August 24, 2016)
The article from Texas A&M Today (see below) was picked up by the Houston Chronicle, further publicizing the study about standing desks in elementary classrooms. Link to story
Texas A&M Today: Standing desks lead to improved BMI in children (August 23, 2016)
“Research around the world has shown that standing desks are positive for the teachers in terms of classroom management and student engagement, as well as positive for the children for their health, cognitive functioning and academic achievement.” – Mark Benden, PhD Link to story
Harvard Health Publications: Can exercise help relieve teen depression? (August 10, 2016)
One of the many health benefits of exercise is as a mood booster, and research has supported physical activity as a “prescription” to aid depression in adults. This blog offers preliminary evidence that exercise may decrease depression in teenagers, as well, particularly when used in conjunction with other treatment strategies. Link to story
Drs. Oz and Roizen: Boost your brainpower by getting moving (July 16, 2016)
This article, syndicated and available via multiple news outlets, is targeting older adults, rather than youth. However, the points are applicable as they explain why “Exercise is good for your brain, for a ton of reasons.” Link to story
WJHL News: Local school systems preparing for new TN physical activity requirements (June 2, 2016)
This article discusses potential challenges to achieving the new physical activity requirement during the school day, but provides support for the necessity of the mandate. The Tennessee Department of Education cites numerous studies that link physical activity with cognition and academic performance. Link to story
WBBJ News: Physical activity requirements changing for grades K-6 (May 11, 2016)
The state of Tennessee will increase their minimum physical activity requirements from 90 minutes per week to 160-225 minutes per week on July 1. In the article, Stuart Hirstein is quoted: “When you think about educating the whole child, movement and exercise must be considered a vital part of any program.” Link to story
District Administration Magazine: Schools form a circus of trust (May 2016)
The Circus Project, in Portland, Oregon, offers students the opportunity to be physically active while learning to communicate and increasing self-confidence. Link to story
KXAN: School uses yoga-like exercises to help with STAAR test scores (March 28, 2016)
Mindful Classrooms, a classroom-based stretching and breathing program created by James Butler, is in place in 50 schools. Teachers report that students enjoy the activities and that there is an associated improvement in standardized test performance. Link to story
Sport New Zealand: A fresh approach to PE and sport in schools and communities (March 10, 2016)
This article describes a new initiative in New Zealand to promote quality PE and sport involvement in schools using a physical literacy approach. Link to story
The Washington Post: Is more physical education at school linked to higher student math scores? (February 9, 2016)
“The amount of time students spend doing physical activity in school appears to be linked to higher standardized math scores in D.C. schools, according to a new American University study that examined the success of the city’s Healthy Schools Act and found that schools offering more physical activity had significantly better math success.” Link to story
Lancaster Online: Let the kids play (January 18, 2016)
This editorial promotes recess, and physical education classes, for students across elementary, middle, and high schools, pointing to recent recommendations, research, and statistics for support. Link to story
TODAY: Welcome to the school where kids have recess 4 times a day (January 18, 2016)
The four recesses per day story (Jan. 8) is picked up and covered on the TODAY show. Link to video
Science Alert: Standing up at school improves students’ cognitive performance, study finds (January 15, 2016)
Results from a pilot research study show that high school students demonstrated improved executive function and working memory capabilities when using standing desks, compared to traditional seated desks, during the school day. Link to story
Texas A&M Today reported on this study, as well. (January 14, 2016) Link to story
Atlanta Journal-Constitution: New Fulton program aims to get students more active in school (January 14, 2016)
While the program described in this new story targets PE as the avenue through which students can gain more activity at school, any school-based physical activity interventions are noteworthy. Link to story
BU Today: Moving to Improve: Active “brain breaks” get kids moving—and help them learn (January 11, 2016)
This article is an excellent overview of the need for movement in the general education classroom. Link to story
*This program also made news in the summer of 2015. See below.
TODAY: Want kids to listen more, fidget less? Try more recess… this school did (January 8, 2016)
Kindergarteners and first graders in Fort Worth, TX, are getting four recess breaks every day, for a total of 60 minutes of recess. Teachers, while initially hesitant about the new system, now report that students are more focused in class. Link to story
Hawaii Reporter: Squeezing bursts of activity into the school day (January 6, 2016)
“Despite schedule and funding constrictions, a Honolulu School is creatively finding ways to squeeze a little more fitness into the school day.” Link to story
KBTX Media: Several Bryan ISD elementary parents want changes to recess schedule (October 23, 2015)
Time for students to be active at school is critical, but scheduling that time is difficult. This news story highlights the need for increased awareness of the benefit of physical activity throughout the school day for academic performance. Link to story
The Washington Post: In these Charleston, S.C., schools, children are seen, and heard, and always active (October 20, 2015)
“The educational model is broken…and the key to fixing it is applying some of the most basic principles of sport and exercise.” Link to article
NowThis video: Kids are now using standing desks (October 13, 2015)
This video depicts students using standing desks in their elementary classrooms. It includes positive feedback from students. Link to video
The Washington Post: Why young kids need less class time — and more play time — at school (August 21, 2015)
This article offers a unique perspective on offering students more recess. “…longer time on task doesn’t equate to better results, only greater burnout.” Link to article
BU Today: Moving to Improve (Summer 2015)
“Physical activity helps kids learn, but they aren’t getting enough of it. BU is training a new generation of teachers to change that.” Link to article
*This program also made news in January of 2016. See above.
National Physical Activity Plan: Physical activity is the “best buy” for Americans (2015)
While not specific to kids, this commentary speaks to the impact of physical activity: “If physical activity were a pill every doctor would be prescribing it, every insurance company would be happy to pay for it, and every American would be taking it on a daily basis.” Link to article
The Denver Post: Schools hope grant leads to fitter, better students (July 23, 2015)
“We are just trying to provide and create opportunities for schools to embed physical activity as part of their culture…” Link to article
The Conversation: Let children move around, stand or walk in the classroom. You’ll see the difference (July 17, 2015)
“…is it not important to teach our children how to be more active, from an early age?” Link to article
NPR: Learning to move, moving to learn: The benefits of PE (March 25, 2015)
“Our school systems capture almost every kid. That’s the system we should capitalize on.” Link to article
HNGN: Physical activity linked to academic success (February 23, 2015)
“Physical activity is increasingly more important to academic success, experts say, and that link starts at an early age.” Link to article
TODAY: Students read while riding stationary bikes (October 24, 2014)
“A North Carolina school swapped stationary bikes for desks so that kids can use all that bottled-up energy while reading instead of feeling trapped indoors.” Link to article
The Washington Post: Why so many kids can’t sit still in school today (July 8, 2014)
In this post, an occupational therapist shares her there may be a link between the increased prevalence of ADHD in children and the amount of seat time at school. Link to article (subscription needed)
The Washington Times: Kansas study links exercise with education success (January 30, 2014)
“A new study of Kansas elementary and middle school students found a link between physical fitness and better performance on math and reading exams.” Link to article
Huffington Post: Physical activity in schools is essential to reversing childhood obesity (October 3, 2013)
“Beyond improved health and fitness, physical activity enhances concentration and attention; it improves attendance and academic performance.” Link to article
Education Week: Institute of Medicine suggests 60 minutes of daily activity in schools (May 23, 2013)
“The institute’s recommended “whole-of-school” approach would require “all of a school’s components and resources [to] operate in a coordinated and dynamic manner” to give students the chance to engage in at least 60 minutes of daily MVPA.: Link to article
OregonLive: Oregon’s big plan for PE greatness takes a back seat (March 2, 2013)
“In some ways, the story of PE is not really about PE at all.” Link to article
TODAY Health: Smart jocks: Fit kids do better on math, reading tests (February 28, 2013)
“…children who are more physically fit tended to do better in the math and reading tests than children who were less active and heavier.” Link to article
Good Morning America: Learning on the Move: Reading, Writing & Running in Place (Posted Apr. 13, 2010)
This video (3:19min) is a clip from GMA on activity in the classroom, interspersed with examples and expert testimony. Link to video
