Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Summer 2021
Abstract
Modern kindergarten classrooms are academically rigorous learning environments with high expectations placed on young learners. Oftentimes, these students still receive an education based on traditional instructional strategies that no longer benefit and challenge young learners appropriately. This literature review examines the academic benefits of intentional classroom movement, kinesthetic learning, brain breaks and the impact they have on learning in the kindergarten setting. This literature review presents peer reviewed research studies conducted within the last ten years that investigate the most advantageous methods of movement incorporation in the classroom. The findings of this literature review conclude that, by increasing classroom movement, students benefit with greater cognitive ability, increased executive functioning skills, demonstrate higher levels of engagement, and can retain more academic material. In conclusion, current kindergarten classrooms benefit from and should integrate intentional movement, kinesthetic learning, and brain breaks as best practice instructional strategies to educate young learners appropriately.
Included in
Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Elementary Education Commons