The 'Mind-Body Connection'

The Ready-Steady-Move program ensures that children's vocabulary develops right alongside
their movement vocabulary. But what do we mean by 'movement vocabulary'? The human body communicates through a complex set of movements that children begin to learn even before birth and build upon as they grow. Ready-Steady-Move helps children develop their language and movement skills in parallel.

Ready-Steady-Move uses the 'Mind – Body Connection' to help children develop their movement repertoire. Through our special activity books, songs and music, children not only strengthen their bodies, but elevate their vocabulary to a higher level. Children easily pick up the meaning of words, or any foreign language they are taught during the lesson, while enjoying movement activities focused on improved overall body control.

Expert opinions and supporting research

Exercise in many ways optimizes your brain to learn

Exercise improves circulation throughout the body, including the brain, Ratey explains. Exercise also boosts metabolism, decreases stress and improves mood and attention, all of which help the brain perform better.

The brain cells actually become more resilient and more pliable and are more ready to link up. It's this linking up that allows us to retain new information. Much of the research on the specific effects of exercise on neurons has been done in the lab. But studies in people also are backing physical activity as a way to keep the brain healthy and our minds sharp.

Dr. John Ratey, Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School in Boston.

Increasing Physical Activity Levels in Children and Youth

Children and adolescents need to be physically active for at least 60 minutes per day. Physical activity needs to be promoted at home, in the community, and at school, but school is perhaps the most encompassing way for all children to benefit.

The availability of regular physical activity in the school setting is critical.

The American Pediatric Society recommends the provision of a variety of physical activity opportunities in addition to Physical Education within the school setting.

The American Pediatric Society, POLICY STATEMENT, PEDIATRICS magazine, Vol. 117 No. 5 May 2006, pp. 1834-1842