As summer winds down and school approaches, shifting back to a structured routine can be tough, especially for kids. The initial weeks of school often challenge parents and teachers alike as they strive to harness and direct kids’ boundless energy. Luckily, there are some simple wellness strategies to help clear away the mental and physical cobwebs accumulated over a laid-back summer.

The connection between the body and brain is deeply interwoven. The brain sends instructions to the body, and in turn, the body provides feedback to the brain, creating a continuous cycle of communication. Regular physical activity helps this cycle, fostering both brain and body development. Recent research highlights that increased physical activity not only enhances brain function but also positively impacts academic performance.

Here are three engaging ways to leverage movement for boosting focus and energy this back-to-school season, with fun activities that can be done at home or in the classroom to strengthen both mind and body:

1. Elevate Heart Rate

Our brains need a steady supply of oxygen and glucose to operate optimally, which is delivered through increased blood circulation. One of the easiest ways to improve circulation is through movement. Aerobic exercises, such as running or jumping, enhance the development of the hippocampus—the brain’s memory and learning hub. They also promote the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain cell growth.

Activity: ABC Adventures

1. Have children stand in place.
2. As you read or tell a story, instruct them to run in place whenever they hear a word starting with the letter G.
3. When they hear a word starting with S, they must freeze on one leg until they hear another G-word.
4. If they lose balance, they should do five jumping jacks before rejoining the game.
5. Continue for 2-3 minutes, incorporating other movements as desired.

2. Cross the Midline

The brain’s left and right hemispheres are connected by the corpus callosum, which facilitates communication between them. Activities that require crossing the midline (e.g., reaching across the body) stimulate this connection, enhancing coordination and cognitive function.

Activity: Crazy Callouts

1. Have children stand and touch a body part from one side of their body to the opposite side (e.g., right hand to left knee).
2. Increase the difficulty by speeding up the commands, adding challenges like closing their eyes, or standing on one leg.
3. Continue for 1-2 minutes, or until children remain engaged.

3. Incorporate Rhythm

Rhythm and cadence are crucial for both movement and learning. Engaging in rhythmic activities helps improve neuronal communication, coordination, and overall learning efficiency.

Activity: Movin’ to the Beat

1. Children stand and perform a simple calisthenic exercise, such as jumping jacks.
2. Select one child to set the tempo with claps, stomps, or another rhythmic sound.
3. Every 5 seconds, have a different child take over the rhythm, changing the tempo as they see fit.
4. The rest of the children adjust their exercise speed to match the new rhythm.
5. Continue for 1-2 minutes or until the children remain focused.

These activities are just the beginning! By integrating movement into daily routines, you can help kids boost their physical and mental energy, making the transition back to school smoother and more enjoyable.