Boosting cognitive growth. This is the kind of insight that sits right at the heart of Stretch-n-Grow’s mission. Physical activity isn’t just about strong muscles and healthy hearts—it’s a powerful driver of brain development, emotional resilience, and lifelong learning. Let’s dive into the science and the magic behind our children’s Preschool fitness programme.
Cognitive Growth: Movement Builds Minds
- Neuroplasticity in Action: Physical activity stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth of new neural connections. This is essential for learning, attention, and problem-solving.
- Executive Function Boost: Activities that require coordination, sequencing, and decision-making—like obstacle courses or dance routines—strengthen executive functions such as planning, working memory, and flexible thinking.
- Academic Readiness: Movement-based learning improves focus and engagement. Children who move regularly show better performance in literacy and numeracy tasks, thanks to improved attention and processing speed.
Memory Enhancement: Move to Remember
- Increased Brain Volume: Regular moderate exercise, like brisk walking or active play, has been shown to increase the volume of brain regions responsible for memory and thinking.
- Improved Recall: Aerobic activities enhance blood flow to the brain, which supports memory consolidation and retrieval. Even short bouts of movement—like 20 minutes of dancing—can lead to immediate improvements in memory recall.
- Sleep & Stress Connection: Exercise improves sleep quality and reduces stress, both of which are critical for memory retention and cognitive clarity.
Emotional Regulation: Movement Calms and Connects
- Mood Stabilizer: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin, which help regulate mood and reduce anxiety and depression.
- Self-Regulation Skills: Structured movement routines teach children how to manage their energy, emotions, and impulses. Breathing exercises and calming stretches are especially effective in transitions and emotional resets.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Group activities foster empathy, cooperation, and emotional expression. Children learn to cheer for others, take turns, and express feelings through movement.
How Stretch-n-Grow Brings This to Life
- Themed Movement: From “Superhero Training” to “Jungle Adventures,” every class is designed to engage the brain while moving the body.
- Mindful Moments: Cool-downs include breathing, visualization, and affirmations to help children internalize calm and confidence.
- Take-Home Tools: Families receive activities, via newsletters and handouts that reinforce emotional regulation and cognitive skills—like “Emotion Motion” cards or “Memory Moves” games.
Want to Explore Further?
You can read more about the science behind these benefits in Harvard Health’s overview of exercise and brain function, or dive into the CDC’s guide to physical activity and brain health.
Would you like help with your early years setting? Contact us. Stretch-n-Grow is a Worldwide programme
