05/31/2026
MOVEMENT: ONE OF THE GREATEST DRIVERS OF DEVELOPMENT
Movement is far more than exercise or physical activity. It is one of the primary ways young children build their brains, bodies, and understanding of the world.
Research has consistently found that movement supports:
• Brain development and neuroplasticity
Physical activity contributes to changes in brain structure and function that support learning, memory, and cognition.
(Hillman et al., 2008)
• Executive functioning
Children who engage in regular physical activity often demonstrate stronger working memory, inhibitory control, attention, and cognitive flexibility.
(Best, 2010; Donnelly et al., 2016)
• Learning and academic success
Movement and motor development are associated with school readiness, language development, cognitive performance, and later academic achievement.
(Diamond, 2000; Cameron et al., 2012)
• Emotional well-being and mental health
Physical activity has been linked to improved mood, stress regulation, and overall mental health outcomes in children.
(Biddle & Asare, 2011)
• Healthy sensory development
Movement helps organize and strengthen sensory systems responsible for balance, body awareness, coordination, and attention.
(Schaaf & Mailloux, 2015)
• Physical health and lifelong wellness
Regular movement supports cardiovascular health, bone development, motor competence, and overall physical well-being.
(World Health Organization, 2019)
One of the most important findings from developmental science is that cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and sensory development do not occur in isolation. They are deeply interconnected.
When children climb, crawl, run, jump, spin, balance, carry, push, pull, roll, and explore, they are simultaneously developing the skills that support learning, regulation, problem-solving, confidence, and health.
Movement is not a break from development. Movement is one of the primary engines that drives it.
