Easy Ways to Involve Movement in Your Lessons (& Increase Student Focus & Engagement)

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Show Notes:

Let’s be honest - kids are full of energy! With limited opportunities to release that energy during the school day, it’s no surprise that focusing, retaining information, and staying engaged can be a challenge for them. Your first instinct might be to contain this energy, but instead you can harness it in a way that makes your lessons more fun and effective. 

One of the simplest ways to do this is by incorporating movement into your classroom. Movement isn’t just about keeping kids active; it comes with a host of learning benefits. Research shows that physical activity enhances brain function, improves memory retention, boosts mood, and helps reset attention spans. It can also lead to fewer behavior issues, fostering stronger relationships and a positive classroom culture.

In today’s episode, we’ll explore why movement is such a powerful tool for teaching, backed by research-based evidence. I’ll share practical strategies you can use to seamlessly integrate movement into your lessons to boost focus, engagement, and overall student success. Plus, I’ll address common concerns teachers have about movement disruptions, with four actionable tips to help you set clear expectations and maintain order in your classroom.

No matter the season, students always seem to have boundless energy. Instead of ignoring or suppressing it, embrace it! Incorporating movement into your lessons benefits your students both physically and mentally. Remember, movement isn’t about creating chaos, it’s about creating opportunities for engagement and fun.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• Why movement is so critical and research-based evidence that supports incorporating it in the classroom
• 10 practical and simple ways to involve movement in your lessons, along with actionable steps you can apply in your classrooms tomorrow
• How you can prepare your students with expectations and other key structures before implementing movement 
• Ways to challenge yourself with movement in the classroom instead of fighting the energy in your students

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode: 

• Learn more about R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club
• Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
• Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant.
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
• Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• 10 Ways to Infuse Movement into Your Classroom for Better Engagement and Focus
• 13 Strategies to Constructively Channel Your Chatty Class’s Energy and Enthusiasm 
• How to Stay Motivated and Focused When it Feels Hard
• 5 Great Ways to Spice Up Boring Curriculum & Increase Engagement

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