Research shows that when students move frequently they are more likely to learn better. Movement skills also reinforces the development of thinking and reading skills. Without a doubt, a regulated child is able to attend better in class. Frequent movement helps a child to refocus, calm, and take control of their bodies and actions.
One might ask, how do we find ways to add more movement into our day? Well, our 4th grade Talent & Development, formerly TAG, students found an excellent answer to that question. Throughout the winter/spring of 2023 those students implemented an Interactive Hallway at Okoboji Elementary School (OES). Activities are added to a hallway to make it interactive. Imagine a space with decals on the floor that create unique movement opportunities in an organized way as students move throughout the hall.
These 4th grade students took an idea and made it into real life. They were given a budget. They researched different types of movements to be integrated and designed into our hallway. Our students scheduled, organized, and led meetings with the Principal and Nurse at OES. They worked with our local AEA to get the decals printed. These 4th graders even created a video to teach our school how to use the hallway safely and appropriately! You can watch the video here.