Many people are able to concentrate and learn better when moving. It doesn't have to be associated with any type of subject. Our girls crave movement. When we require stillness they hold putty in their hands and squeeze, roll, and form it so that even in a small way they can move. Adele chews gum all through school to help her focus. Some people doodle or knit, and others think most clearly when walking, or folding laundry.
Certain movements help us learn more effectively. Cross lateral movements (crossing the midline of the body) gets both sides of the body working together, including arms, legs, eyes and ears. Smart Moves talks a lot about Brain Gym. Brain Gym uses movement to re-pattern the brain, or to strengthen weak connections. The exercises can help all people who want active and alert brains. Many activities previously mentioned like crawling, jumping, spinning, swinging, etc. activate and/or strengthen the proprioceptive and vestibular systems in the brain. Those are used in Brain Gym. But there are additional exercises that can be done before school/work, and after lunch, that will increase effectiveness and concentration. The author recommends a few good books to get us started: S'cool Moves for Learning, Brain Gym Teacher's Edition, and Brain Gym: Simple Activities for Whole Brain Learning.
I also came across a helpful organization in Australia that helps kids with different learning challenges through Brain Gym-like movements. It has an assessment you can give your kids to see what areas they might need help with, and then some exercises to strengthen that area. If you are interested you can visit www.betterlearninginstitute.com.
In summary, we have learned to GET MOVING!
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