Essential learning through movement encompasses multiple critical aspects that contribute to cognitive, physical, and emotional development. Three key aspects are:
1. Spatial and Body Awareness
Movement helps learners develop a sense of where their body is in space and how it relates to the environment. This awareness is foundational for coordination, balance, and effective interaction with surroundings. It supports the brain's ability to process sensory information and integrate it with motor actions, which is crucial for tasks such as reading, writing, and problem-solving
2. Balance and Coordination
Through movement, learners improve their balance and coordination, which are vital for both physical activities and cognitive tasks. The cerebellum, which controls muscle coordination and balance, also plays a significant role in cognitive processes. Enhancing balance and coordination through movement thus supports brain functions like attention, executive function, and creative thinking
3. Cognitive Benefits and Neuroplasticity
Physical movement stimulates neuroplasticity-the brain's ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections. Activities that involve motor skills increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, promoting neuron growth and strengthening memory and learning capacity. Movement-based learning improves executive functions such as attention, memory retention, and problem-solving, which directly enhance academic achievement
. In summary, essential learning through movement develops spatial/body awareness, balance/coordination, and cognitive functions via neuroplasticity. These interconnected aspects create a strong foundation for academic success and overall brain development.
