The modern world presents a unique set of challenges for children, with increasing demands on their attention from schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and digital media. For many parents and educators, maintaining kids’ focus and concentration has become a top priority. While structured learning environments and effective teaching strategies are crucial, one often-overlooked solution is physical activity.
Research has consistently shown that regular movement and exercise have a profound impact on children’s ability to concentrate, focus, and increase positive wellbeing and learning outcomes.
The Link Between Physical Activity and Brain Function
Physical activity doesn’t just benefit the body; it also has a significant impact on the brain. When children move, their heart rate increases, pumping more oxygen-rich blood to the brain. This stimulates the release of neurochemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, which are essential for maintaining focus and mood regulation.
Regular exercise also encourages the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and connectivity of brain cells. Increased levels of BDNF are linked to improved learning, memory, and concentration, making physical activity a natural booster for cognitive development.
How Physical Activity Improves Concentration
1. Enhanced Executive Function
Executive function refers to the cognitive skills needed for planning, decision-making, problem-solving, and self-regulation. Physical activity, especially activities that require coordination or strategic thinking (like sports or dance), strengthens these skills by challenging the brain to adapt and respond.
For instance, a child playing basketball must decide when to pass, shoot, or defend, requiring quick thinking and focus. Over time, these experiences translate to improved concentration in academic tasks.
2. Increased Energy Levels
Contrary to the belief that movement might tire kids out, moderate physical activity actually boosts energy levels. When children are physically active, their bodies release endorphins, which help reduce feelings of fatigue and improve overall alertness. This heightened state of energy makes it easier for kids to stay engaged during learning activities.
3. Reduction in Hyperactivity and Restlessness
For children with ADHD, physical activity can be particularly beneficial. Movement helps them release pent-up energy, reducing feelings of restlessness and hyperactivity that can interfere with concentration. After a short burst of activity, such as running or jumping, these children often find it easier to focus on tasks that require sustained attention.
4. Improved Mood and Stress Reduction
Emotional well-being plays a critical role in a child’s ability to concentrate. Physical activity is a proven stress reliever, lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol and promoting relaxation. A child who feels less anxious or overwhelmed is more likely to stay focused and engaged.
Physical Activity in School Settings
Given the positive impact of movement on concentration, it’s essential for schools to integrate physical activity into their daily routine. Unfortunately, due to schools increasingly balancing various competing interests, they have reduced recess and physical education (PE) time in favour of more academic instruction. This approach may be counterproductive, as reducing opportunities for movement can negatively affect children’s ability to focus in class.
1. Recess as a Cognitive Reset
Recess and lunch breaks provide children with a much-needed break from academic tasks. Short periods of unstructured play allow kids to expend energy, interact with peers, and return to class with renewed focus. Studies have shown that students who engage in physical activity during break times perform better on attention-demanding tasks immediately afterwards.
2. Active Classrooms
Teachers can incorporate movement into the classroom through “active learning” strategies. These include activities like standing while working, short stretch breaks, or interactive lessons that require physical participation. Active classrooms not only improve concentration but also make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
3. Physical Education (PE)
Quality PE programs go beyond teaching sports and fitness; they also equip students with lifelong skills to stay physically active. Schools that prioritise regular PE sessions often see improvements in students’ academic performance and behaviour, as these programs contribute to better mood regulation and focus.
How Parents Can Encourage Physical Activity
1. Active Family Time
Incorporating physical activity into family routines is a great way to bond while promoting concentration. Activities like hiking, cycling, or even playing tag in the backyard encourage kids to move while spending quality time with loved ones.
2. Sports and Extracurricular Activities
Organised sports and extracurricular activities provide structured opportunities for children to stay active. Whether it’s swimming, gymnastics, or martial arts, participating in regular physical activities helps children develop discipline, focus, and teamwork skills.
3. Screen Time Limits
Excessive screen time can lead to sedentary behaviour, which negatively impacts concentration. Parents can set limits on screen time and encourage active alternatives, such as outdoor play or creative movement games.
The Role of Reset Moves
Technology can also play a positive role in promoting physical activity and concentration, as demonstrated by apps like ours at Reset Moves. Designed to incorporate short bursts of movement-based learning into a child’s day, our app offers quick activities that improve focus, mood, and emotional regulation in just a few minutes.
Incorporating engaging games is tailored to meet the needs of neurodivergent and neurotypical children alike, making it an inclusive tool for parents, educators, and therapists. By incorporating Reset Moves into daily routines, families can create a structured way to balance screen time with physical activity, ensuring that children stay active and focused throughout the day.
Creating a Balanced Routine
While physical activity is essential for improving concentration, it’s important to maintain a balanced routine that includes other elements of well-being, such as proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and emotional support.
1. Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and complex carbohydrates supports brain health and energy levels, enabling children to concentrate more effectively.
2. Sleep
Sleep is crucial for cognitive function, yet many children don’t get enough rest. Ensuring that kids have a consistent bedtime routine helps them recharge and perform their best during the day.
3. Mindfulness and Relaxation
In addition to physical activity, mindfulness exercises like deep breathing or yoga can enhance focus and emotional regulation. Combining movement with mindfulness creates a holistic approach to improving concentration.
By prioritising movement in children’s lives, parents and educators can ensure that they not only concentrate better but also thrive in all aspects of life.
Physical activity is a powerful tool for improving children’s concentration, enhancing their ability to succeed academically and socially. Whether through structured sports, playful family activities, or through the innovative Reset Moves app, incorporating movement into a child’s daily routine offers countless benefits for both the mind and body.