15 Ways To Get Kids Moving and Learning
Ah, winter. Its shorter days and subzero temperatures typically mean one thing for kids: loads of pent-up energy just dying to be released—which often leaves teachers feeling helpless within the confines of indoor recess and only one gym class a week.
Research shows that when students incorporate movement into their school day, it has positive effects on their concentration levels and classroom behavior, and it increases their chances for overall academic success. Plus, many kids even benefit from moving while they learn!
We’ve rounded up 15 of our favorite classroom tools and activities that will kick cabin fever right out of your classroom this winter.
1. Put together a fidget toolbox
At one time, fidget spinners were quite the craze. When used properly, “fidget” tools can actually support students’ attention and learning rather than distracting from it. Keep a fidget toolbox handy for kids who could benefit from this type of tool.
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2. Measure around the room
Challenge your students to measure a variety of things in the room—chairs, desks, doors, windows—using yard sticks and rulers.
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3. Use alternative seating options
Give your students the option of sitting on the floor, sitting on a wobble stool, lying on a rug, or standing near a table instead of sitting at traditional desks only.
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4. Do jumping jacks to practice math facts
Have students team up in pairs. One person does a certain number of jumping jacks. Then, the second student does a second number of jumping jacks. The first student must then multiply the two numbers together and give the answer.
5. Attach “Bouncy Bands” to students’ desks
This allows kids to release energy while improving concentration.
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6. Reward students by letting them use a standing desk during a lesson
Or, call out “Stand for five!” to let kids know that they must work standing up for five minutes.
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7. Have a math sticky note scavenger hunt
Hand out math problems and post the answers around the room for kids to find.
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8. Play find-the-question
Write questions related to your lesson on index cards and hide them under kids’ chairs ahead of time so they must get up and find them throughout the lesson.
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9. While lining up, jog in place
This helps children focus and get their energy out without bothering one another.
10. Reward students with a game of traffic light dance or extra recess
Encourage movement instead of giving a pizza party as a prize for achieving classroom goals.
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11. Make an activity jar
Fill up your jar with movement ideas such as “10 squats” or “7 jump-ups.” Pull one out when kids are running low on energy and need a boost.
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12. Play fitness dice
Roll these dice every hour and have kids do the fitness activity that comes up.
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13. Bring learning outdoors
If you live in area that’s relatively warm year-round (or happen to have an unseasonably warm winter day), make it a habit to take lessons outdoors whenever you can.
14. Play Would-You-Rather as a class
Designate one side of the classroom for one option and the other side for the second option. For example, ask the class, “would you rather own an aquarium or own a zoo?” and those who want the aquarium would go to one side of the room, and future zookeepers would go to the other. This is a great indoor recess activity, but it can also be used to introduce units in class, such as the next reading assignment!
15. A tried-and-true kid favorite: Dance before or after a lesson
Play a YouTube video (search Brain Breaks—there are tons of options!) or use GoNoodle to get kids warmed up for a lesson or to boost energy after the lesson is over.
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