Change Your Child’s Environment to Change Your Child’s Life: Part 6

Did you know that kids should be getting 3-4 hours of exercise every day? Unfortunately, most children—especially those with developmental challenges—fall far short of this. Many only get gym class a couple of times a week or have a short recess, and even then, not all kids are actively moving. Too much time spent sitting in front of screens or being sedentary at home can significantly impact their development.

Movement: The Brain’s Miracle Grow

From a neurological perspective, exercise releases Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)—think of it as Miracle Grow for the brain. BDNF helps neurons form new connections, grow, and strengthen, which is critical for cognitive function, learning, and behavior.

Beyond that, movement engages key brain systems, including:

✔ Core muscles & balance centers – Essential for stability and coordination.

✔ Eye-tracking skills – Crucial for reading and focus.

✔ Cognitive & attentional networks – Supports focus, learning, and self-regulation.

The Cerebellum: Your Child’s Brain Powerhouse

A strong core is key to activating the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement, balance, behavior, and attention. In fact, the cerebellum contains more neurons than the rest of the brain combined because it plays such a huge role in overall function. The best way to strengthen it? Movement.

How to Get Kids Moving More

For children with developmental or behavioral challenges, movement is one of the most effective ways to support their growth. Here are some ways to incorporate more activity into their day:

✅ Weekend Adventures – Take long walks, visit parks, go swimming, or explore splash pads.

✅ Sports & Activities – Even if your child isn’t naturally athletic, sports help build core strength, coordination, and resilience.

✅ Playtime Every Day – Encourage activities that engage gross motor skills, like climbing, jumping, and balancing.

Sports also provide a social component, helping kids build friendships, teamwork, and perseverance. Learning not to quit when something is hard is a powerful life lesson that carries over into school, relationships, and future challenges.

Exercise Fuels the Brain

Physical activity doesn’t just strengthen muscles—it increases blood flow to the brain, delivering essential oxygen to areas responsible for attention, behavior, and social interaction. The right side of the brain, which governs motor planning, emotional regulation, and social engagement, is especially activated through movement.

Children with low muscle tone or poor motor skills often struggle with learning disabilities, and movement is one of the most effective, natural ways to strengthen their brain and body. Consistently getting kids active helps improve their cognitive development, behavior, and overall well-being.