Written By Sweating for Smarts: How Exercise Impacts Cognitive Development in Kids
As a parent or educator, you’re probably aware of the numerous benefits that regular exercise has on children’s physical health. But did you know that exercise can also have a significant impact on their cognitive development?
Over the years, research has shown that exercise has numerous cognitive benefits, including improved attention span, memory, and problem-solving skills. But how exactly does this work, and what can parents and educators do to encourage children to exercise regularly?
To understand how exercise impacts cognitive development, it’s important to first understand the brain’s anatomy. The brain is made up of numerous neural networks that are responsible for different cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, and decision-making.
When we exercise, our bodies release various chemicals, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a protein that helps to support the growth and survival of neurons in the brain. This protein has been shown to have a significant impact on cognitive function, particularly in the areas of learning and memory.
In addition to the release of BDNF, exercise has also been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, which helps to improve overall brain function. This increased blood flow can also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to various cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Encouraging Children to Exercise
Now that we understand the science behind exercise and cognitive development, how can we encourage children to exercise regularly? Here are some tips:
- Make exercise fun: One of the best ways to encourage children to exercise is to make it fun! This could mean playing games that involve physical activity, such as tag or dodgeball, or taking a family bike ride or hike.
- Set a good example: Children are more likely to be active if they see their parents or other adults in their lives being active as well. Make sure that you’re setting a good example by exercising regularly yourself.
- Limit screen time: One of the biggest obstacles to children being active is the amount of time they spend in front of screens. Encourage children to limit their screen time and instead spend more time being active.
- Encourage team sports: Team sports are a great way for children to be active while also learning valuable skills, such as teamwork and communication.
In conclusion, regular exercise has numerous cognitive benefits for children, including improved attention span, memory, and problem-solving skills. By understanding the science behind exercise and cognitive development, and by encouraging children to be active through fun activities and setting a good example, we can help to support their cognitive development and overall health.
