Brains in Action
The science behind learning through movement
Children aren’t built to sit still all day—and research shows they actually learn best when their bodies and brains are working together. That’s why at WHPS, movement isn’t a break from learning; it’s a driving force behind it. From outdoor learning spaces to animal interactions to flexible seating, we put movement at the heart of education, boosting focus, confidence, and joy.
Why Movement Matters for Learning
Five-year-olds have an average attention span of about 15 minutes. Many schools still rely on long stretches of seatwork, but we know kids need more. At WHPS, movement is built into every day, helping students strengthen focus, memory, and self-regulation while keeping learning active and engaging.
Small Movements, Big Impact
At a recent staff workshop with education expert Lindsay Astor Grant, our teachers explored how even small, intentional movements can spark big gains in learning. For example, our first graders practice “Reading the Room”—moving around to find spelling patterns. What might be a desk-bound task elsewhere becomes an energizing, collaborative activity that builds focus and sets kids up for deeper learning.
Crossing the Midline: A Key to Brain Power
One powerful insight: the benefits of “crossing the midline”—moving a hand, foot, or eye across the body’s center. This simple action strengthens connections between the brain’s hemispheres, boosting memory, focus, and problem-solving for skills like reading and writing.
Four Playful Ways We Build Mind & Body Strength
Antigravity Moves: Crab walking and bear crawling build core strength and sharpen focus.
Tabletop Exercises: Hands-and-knees movements improve posture, stability, and working memory.
Vertical Surfaces: Easel work activates both brain hemispheres for a full-body learning boost.
Heavy Work: Pushing, pulling, and lifting help regulate energy and sustain concentration.
Proprioception & Self-Regulation
Proprioception—the body’s sense of where it is in space—helps children feel grounded and calm. At WHPS, we weave proprioceptive activities into the school day: pressing hands into the ground during Morning Meeting, carrying weighted objects, or using gentle self-compression. These simple actions give kids the sensory input they need to stay confident, focused, and ready to learn.
Three Easy Ways to Bring Movement Home
Simon Says with a Twist: Add midline-crossing moves, like touching the opposite knee.
Movement Jar: Pick short, fun activities—jumping jacks, stretches, or crab walking—for brain breaks.
Mindful Movement: Try simple yoga poses or breathing to channel energy in a calming way.
At WHPS, movement isn’t an “extra”—it’s essential. Every jump, stretch, and joyful move helps children strengthen their brains and bodies in ways that last far beyond the classroom.
