"Exercise is ADHD Medication"
I recently came across a research study that found that exercise may help the brain focus on individual tasks easier. "The medical journal Pediatrics published research that found kids who took part in a regular physical activity program showed important enhancement of cognitive performance and brain function" (Hamblin, 2014). This research study helps to explain the many benefits of exercise especially for children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The more research we have for this, the more support we may have for physical activity programs in schools. In my opinion, we need more attention brought to this topic to help raise well-balanced healthy children and families. According to the article, "another study found that a 12-week exercise program improved math and reading test scores in all kids, but especially in those with signs of ADHD" (Hamblin, 2014). "A very similar study in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that just 26 minutes of daily physical activity for eight weeks significantly allayed ADHD symptoms in grade-school kids"(Hamblin, 2014).
All of this research could greatly benefit children, if schools create more daily opportunities to be physically active and exercise. Many children that are prescribed amphetamines or other ADHD medications may not need the medication or have to deal with the common side effects that the medications bring with them. What could be wrong with a little daily exercise?
Reference:
Hamblin, J. (2014). Exercise is ADHD medication. The Atlantic. Retrieved from http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/09/exercise-seems-to-be-beneficial-to-children/380844/
What a great topic. I love teaching children exercise. I hear too many children that all they do at home is sit and watch TV or play a computer game. I feel that if they get outside and exercise they can be healthier and learn so much more.
ReplyDeleteWhy is there a push for less play time when research shows it is so vital for optimal development? Studies in other countries show consistently that playtime helps not only autistic children but mainstreamed ones as well.
ReplyDeleteIn an article published by Jonathan Kantrowitz (2009),
he states that "children in China and Japan, which are envied for their success in teaching science, technology, engineering, and math, enjoy a play-based, experiential approach to schooling until second grade. Finnish children similarly have a lengthy and playful childhood, not beginning formal schooling until age 7. Yet Finland consistently gets the highest scores on international exams."
But unfortunately, here in America, we fold under pressure to reduce "play time" in favor of standardized testing drills (Barth, 2008). That is a shame for all children, but especially for those afflicted with attention problems.
Reference:
Barth, P. (2008).Time out: Is recess in danger? Center for Public Education. Retrieved from: http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/Main-Menu/Organizing-a-school/Time-out-Is-recess-in-danger
Kantrowitz, J. (2009). No time to play in kindergarten, Educational Research Report, Retrieved from: http://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2009/08/no-time-to-play-in-kindergaten.html
Mary,
ReplyDeleteThat's an interesting piece of research which would definitely help both teachers and students to deal with the disorder. ADHD is a common childhood disorder that affects many children and many teachers though they may know about the characteristics of the disorder are often left helpless in how to deal with the child. In addition, I am happy to see that research has linked physical exercise to fine and gross motor control and cognitive development as I surely believe that if more research of that kind are done and disseminated to prove the benefit of physical exercises and outdoor activities, will help to give it more importance in our schools. Caroline
Mary,
ReplyDeleteI agree that physical activity will help a child's brain develop. I know this year at my son's elementary school they have to do 90minutes of PE a week. Hopefully these outdoor activities will help the children. Thank you for your post it was very interesting.