Kids feel great with their bodies in motion, and I do too. Almost every lesson can be adapted to add movement. It could be as simple as showing a character’s mood through facial expression. Or it could be as complex as simulating the inner workings of an animal cell using human bodies. Seeing things from multiple perspectives increases learning.
I recently discovered the game “Scoot” which can be adapted to any subject or grade level. To play the students start at one area (desk perhaps) answering a posted question, then when directed they “scoot” to the next location (another desk maybe) to answer a different question. They keep track of their answers on a student recording sheet. You can find many printable “Scoot” games online (and better directions) by doing a simple search.
In this Ted talk by gamer Jane McGonigal, she explains her remarkable recovery from depression and illness by building 4 types of resilience – one of which includes the FUN of moving.
Crack open those games – what a great way to keep moving, build resiliency and have FUN!
Kat and Squirrel 