I have recently come across a fantastic program called "Math and Movement". It is a programmed designed for kids to have FUN while LEARNING their numbers!! (WOW!!!). The program incorporates music and various exercises (exercises similar to "Brain Gym", see below for more info). We have been starting every morning with about 5-10 minutes of M&M and the kids are loving it! It gets them up and going and a chance to practice counting (by 1's, 2's, 5's, 10's, etc.).
I would highly encourage families to do some M&M anytime at home as well - click here to check out the website for more information and benefits to the program.
What is Brain Gym?
Brain Gym is a series of movements created to enhance communication between the left and right brain. It has been shown to improve a wide variety of skills including writing, speech, memory, etc. It is an incredible successful program. A staple move to find out if your child's left and right brain are working well together is to have your child do a cross over (bring your left elbow to your right knee, switch, bring your right elbow to your left knee, and so forth). This is one of many exercises for your brain.
There is a fantastic center in St. Jacobs that has been doing Brain Gym with kids for many years, in case you are interested. It is called the Integrated Centre for Optimal Learning.
Here is a link to more information on Brain Gym.
