Parents are always interested in ways to improve their child’s academic performance. What if the answer was as simple as getting your child to become more physically active? John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, delivered this message to more than 300 professionals attending the annual Tennessee Public Health Association conference in Franklin.
By spending time on the beautiful running trails Williamson County Parks offer, visiting family friendly gyms, taking swim lessons, participating in youth sports, and overall becoming more physically active, can benefit a child’s academic performance. Physical exercise is as valuable to their success as libraries.
“Numerous studies by reputable organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have shown an important association between physical activity and academic performance,” Dreyzehner said. “While many parents realize regular exercise and physical activity can help build healthy bodies, decrease risk for some chronic diseases, reduce stress and improve self-esteem, sometimes we forget improved physical health can impact what happens in the classroom and how children learn.”
“Physical activity is associated with improved concentration and attention,” said TDH Family Health and Wellness Director Michael Warren, MD, MPH. “Parents and teachers should also know that physical activity can positively impact classroom behavior and academic performance. Physical activity is not only good for the heart and muscles, but also for the brain.”
Many clinicians recommend a minimum of one hour of physical activity each day for school-age children. The activity does not have to be strenuous or demanding physically; anything that requires movement can contribute to improved health and impact what happens in a classroom or other learning environment.
“We all recognize that academic success positions children for greater achievements throughout their lives,” Dreyzehner said. “When parents and caregivers engage in physical activities with our children, be that running, walking, swimming or other types of active play we choose, we are strengthening important family bonds, modeling strategies for success, getting healthier and burning a few calories ourselves.”
To review CDC information on studies regarding physical activity and academic performance, click here.
Learn more about TDH services and programs at www.tn.gov/health.
