A recent study has found that active children have an academic edge in reading and math.
Researchers from the University of eastern Finland examined children in first through third grades, and discovered that boys have better academic potential if they are physically active.
Researcher Dr. Eero Haapala noted that “boys who had a combination of low levels of physical activity and high levels of sedentary time had the poorest reading skills through Grades 1-3.”
153 children between the ages of 6-8 were tested. Researchers used heart rate and movement sensors to measure activity level, and standardized tests to measure reading and math skills. There were no strong results for girls, but the results for boys were considered significant.
“Our results provide some evidence that promoting a physically more active lifestyle may benefit the development of reading skills in boys during the first school years,” the researchers concluded.
Recent Comments