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Early Childhood Education Commons

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Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

Series

Physical activity

Publication Year

Articles 1 - 3 of 3

Full-Text Articles in Early Childhood Education

Brain Breaks Improve Student Behavior And Focus, Meghan M. Barker Apr 2021

Brain Breaks Improve Student Behavior And Focus, Meghan M. Barker

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

The purpose of this action research project was to determine the impact of brain breaks, or physical activity breaks, when implemented as a transition to learning centers in the preschool classroom. Learning centers consist of small group time, one-on-one time with the teacher, and whole group time where important preschool state standards are taught. The study was conducted over five weeks in two preschool classrooms. One classroom was designated as the control group, and the other classroom as the treatment group. Data was collected to determine if brain breaks had an impact on student focus and behavior. After five weeks …


The Importance Of Physical Activity In Early Childhood Development, Kathleen Stuart Apr 2021

The Importance Of Physical Activity In Early Childhood Development, Kathleen Stuart

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

Programming in early childhood has become increasingly academic, with less consideration for whole-child development. This new emphasis has influenced not only pre-k programs, but also programs serving toddlers and infants. As a result of this focus on academic skills, children from birth to five years old are spending more time in sedentary, academically focused activities and less time in meaningful play and physical activity. Children are no longer afforded the time and opportunity to participate in the robust play activities that are one of the essential elements in whole-child development. This literature review focuses on research that advocates for physical …


The Impact Of Physical Activity On Academic Growth, Elizabeth Jane Merritt May 2017

The Impact Of Physical Activity On Academic Growth, Elizabeth Jane Merritt

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

The purpose of this action research project was to determine if there is a proven benefit to linking physical activity of the whole student learner and their overall academic growth of students in a kindergarten classroom. Implementation of a well-designed and planned physical activity curriculum was used with fidelity over a period of four months. Data was collected in both formats of quantitative and qualitative from students, teachers, parents and administration. Analysis of the data concludes that student academic growth was increased as a result of the increased physical activity of the students.