Research -- StepUp to Learn

How Important Are Genetics in Learning?

How Important Are Genetics in Learning?

Researchers have found that genetics significantly affect learning abilities. That's not to say, however, that academic achievement is entirely pre-determined. Learning environment does have an important effect on test scores, and possibly even more so in some cases.

 

Need Inspiration? Get Moving!

Need Inspiration? Get Moving!

Have you ever hit a creative roadblock? Exercise might be the answer to overcoming mental blocks, according to a new study.

 

Boost Your Preschoolers' Memory Skills

Boost Your Preschoolers' Memory Skills

The Aleutian Islands are part of the state of Alaska. Many adults who read this little known fact may not be able to recall it later. Now, imagine asking 4- and 5-year-olds to learn and retain it. That’s exactly what researchers required of preschoolers in a new study exploring interactive learning and children’s memory.

 

Building Brain Habits: Sharing Chores

Building Brain Habits: Sharing Chores

A teacher of mine once commented, "language begins with the idea in the mind of the child."  I have never forgotten the truth of that moment.  

HIIT Improves Health, Can It Improve Attention?

HIIT Improves Health, Can It Improve Attention?

High-intensity interval training, commonly referred to as HIIT workouts, have been shown to improve adults’ physical and mental health. The benefits of HIIT workouts in adults has inspired researchers to examine the effect of similar exercises in the classroom. Can four minutes of physical activity improve attention and behavior in the classroom?

 

Indoor Fitness for Preschoolers: Is Your Classroom Fit?

Indoor Fitness for Preschoolers: Is Your Classroom Fit?

Experts recommend that children, by the time they’re 5 years of age, should engage in moderate to vigorous physical fitness for at least 60 minutes of activity per day. Researchers found that children’s physical activity levels during preschool class sessions are correlated to the overall quality of the preschool and the availability of indoor area equipment.

 

The "Couch-Potato" Generation

The "Couch-Potato" Generation

Kindergartners and first-graders are rapidly becoming mini-couch potatoes as they are spending more time sitting and watching television and less time actively playing and moving around. How much TV is too much?

 

Moving for Math

Moving for Math

A classroom full of children waving their arms up and down, jumping, and tapping to the beat may sound like a gym class, but these movement exercises are actually designed for the classroom to help children learn math and writing.

Low Engagement? Try Standing Desks

Low Engagement? Try Standing Desks

Physical activity, even acute and less intense levels, has beneficial effects on cognitive ability. We know that standing while working has increased health benefits for adults. Now researchers have found that children who stand at their desks in the classroom are more engaged and attentive than

 

Gesturing: Learn New Words Using Your Hands

Gesturing: Learn New Words Using Your Hands

Hand gesturing is a flexible way of communicating that can help with language learning in both hearing and deaf children.

It’s Not Over Their Heads: Spatial Language in Kids’ Activities

It’s Not Over Their Heads: Spatial Language in Kids’ Activities

Once a child becomes school age, they need to use language in order to follow directions quickly and accurately and to master new social and educational learning.