A Laudable Linkage: Quality Physical Education and Academic Achievement

Despite the abundance of information and evidence that substantiates the benefits of children participating in physical activity, schools and communities around the nation still spurn programs with a focus on developing physical fitness in favor of other projects. The recent financial crisis in the United States has further reduced the consideration for programs involving physical activities and education. 

Despite the disinterest among many for physical activity and education programs, there are many organizations and individuals rising up to introduce novel, extraordinary, engaging programs to reach youth through physical activity. Naperville Central High School in Naperville, Illinois is one of these programs that gets it. It may have taken an ivy league researcher, Dr. John J. Ratey, to bring attention to this school but the success of their program speaks volumes to the impact that physical activity can have in an individual's life, especially the life of a young child. 

In Naperville, there pioneering "learning readiness" program allows young people the opportunity to exercise (no pun intended) their right to move their bodies, bodies that essentially are made to move. Schools naturally should be a place where children are allowed to explore, learn and grow through movement. However, this is not the case in many states, school districts and schools and it is causing serious problems in the overall development of the nation's young people. Simple physical activities like jump rope, running, dance, swimming and even skating are excellent for children. These activities can be performed both individually and as a team. Not only does being a physically active help improve academics, as the research has shown, but it also provides a powerful social boost for children who often are shy and lack confidence. 

Physical activity and education need to become more integrated into the everyday fabric of American life. If it does, perhaps we will see a number of positive changes with respect to health care, education and crime.