[ayaan]

[Kim]

All activities should be allowing children to work on gross or fine motor skills. Taking time to make sure kids can “get their wiggles out” between times that you need to keep them sitting for a while, like circle time and and desk work.

[Kylie Castleman]

You can create a developmentally appropriate, fun, and physically active classroom by introducing different games and learning activities that include a variety of physical movements to encourage children to find fun ways to enjoy physical activity.

[Chloe]

Play based learning and any sort of physical activities requiring students to move around the classroom can be great ways to create a developmentally appropriate, fun, and physically active classroom.

[Genika Garcia]

I would allow them to choose an activity they want to do, sing together, or do some stretches/exercises together. I would have their tools or games set up for them. Coloring and drawing would be another great activity to incorporate into their day.

[Danielle]

We have action songs that we use for transition time to keep the children interested and entertained through a change. We also try to incorporate actions in the teacher lead learning section so that they are interactive and physical. We also like to give our students age appropriate jobs to do within the classroom that help them feel like part of the classroom community along with keeping them active.

[Sara Sul]

Creating a developmentally appropriate, fun, and physically active classroom is essential for promoting children’s overall health, well-being, and learning. Here are some practical tips to achieve this:

1. Incorporate Movement into Daily Activities

• Movement Breaks: Integrate short movement breaks throughout the day to help children release energy and refocus. Activities can include stretching, jumping jacks, or simple dance moves.
• Interactive Storytime: Choose books that encourage movement, such as “From Head to Toe” by Eric Carle, where children mimic animal movements while listening to the story.

2. Use Flexible Furniture and Space

• Adjustable Seating: Use furniture that allows children to choose how they want to sit—on a chair, a balance ball, or on the floor. This flexibility can help accommodate various energy levels.
• Open Floor Space: Ensure there’s ample space for movement activities, such as a designated area for yoga, dance, or group games.

3. Create Learning Stations

• Active Learning Stations: Set up different stations that promote physical activity and learning. For example, a reading nook can have comfy seating and a cozy corner for quiet time, while another station has physical games like hopscotch or a mini obstacle course.
• Sensory Play: Include sensory bins with various textures and materials that require children to engage in movement, such as scooping, pouring, or crawling through tunnels.

4. Incorporate Active Play Equipment

• Movement Equipment: Provide age-appropriate equipment such as hula hoops, jump ropes, balance beams, and soft balls that encourage physical activity.
• Nature Play: If possible, incorporate outdoor elements into the classroom, such as a garden or natural materials, allowing children to engage in active play and exploration.

5. Integrate Physical Activity into Learning

• Math and Movement: Use physical activities for math concepts, like counting steps or jumping for each number in a counting exercise.
• Science Experiments: Incorporate active science experiments, like exploring the environment through a nature walk, to engage children physically while learning.

6. Encourage Social Interaction

• Group Games: Plan activities that require teamwork, such as relay races or cooperative games that promote communication and collaboration.
• Buddy System: Pair children together for activities to foster friendships and support active participation.

7. Model Active Behavior

• Lead by Example: Demonstrate enthusiasm for physical activity and engage in active play with the children. This not only models healthy behaviors but also builds rapport.
• Encourage Participation: Invite children to suggest their favorite games or physical activities, empowering them to take ownership of their learning environment.

8. Plan for Inclusion

• Adapt Activities: Ensure all activities can be modified to accommodate children with varying abilities. This may involve using adaptive equipment or creating alternative challenges.
• Celebrate Diversity: Incorporate games and activities from different cultures to introduce children to a variety of physical traditions.

9. Use Technology Wisely

• Active Video Games: Integrate active video games that require physical movement, such as dance or fitness games, to engage children in a fun way.
• Movement Apps: Consider using apps that encourage movement-based learning or physical challenges tailored to the children’s age group.

10. Feedback and Reflection

• Ask for Input: Regularly seek feedback from children about what activities they enjoy most and what they would like to do more often.
• Reflect on Activities: After physical activities, take time to discuss what children learned and how they felt, reinforcing the importance of movement in a positive way.

By implementing these tips, you can create a classroom environment that promotes developmentally appropriate practices, encourages fun, and fosters a love for physical activity in children.

[Palwasha Mailan]

Use movement games like dancing or stretching, flexible seating, outdoor learning, some movement between activities.

These ideas will keep kids active and engaged while learning.

[Nam]

Flexible Space: Design areas for movement and different activities. Active Learning Stations: Set up stations that promote movement. Incorporate Movement: Use songs and lessons that include physical actions. Outdoor Time: Schedule regular outdoor play and exploration. Active Breaks: Include short movement breaks throughout the day. Variety of Equipment: Provide diverse materials like balls and climbing structures. Creative Games: Use games that encourage teamwork and physical activity. Inclusive Activities: Adapt activities for all abilities. Theme Days: Organize exciting themed physical activity days. Encourage Choice: Let children choose from various activities.

[Ciarra Collins]

Do you have any tips for creating a developmentally appropriate, fun, and physically active classroom?

*Some tips for creating a developmentally appropriate, fun, and physically active classroom would be to have high engagement activities like circle time where the children are able to express themselves while still learning with the activities. You can also continue to build the environment by creating exciting activities for them outside that not only allow for physical s activity but include something fun. Ex: using hula hoop as bases for a makeshift “kickball” game.

[April eCQtives]

To create a fun and active classroom that’s right for kids, set up spaces for movement, mix physical activities with learning, play music for dance breaks, offer different equipment, plan outdoor games, let kids choose activities, include sensory play, and show your own enthusiasm for staying active with them.

[Irene]

songs with instructional dances

[Noung]

Recently I had the chance to work with one year olds. Music has been great to get them active since we can do lots of body movements. When they’re outside, they often stay at the gate to watch the older kids. I redirect them towards the slide or other play structure available. Often times, I run together with the kids or catch bubbles together which is fun for them.

[Jennifer Huynh]

1. Incorporate movement into learning: Use activities like dancing, jumping, or yoga to reinforce lessons, keeping children engaged while meeting physical activity needs.

2. Set up activity zones: Designate different areas for structured and unstructured play, such as obstacle courses, a reading nook, or a dramatic play space, allowing children to move freely and explore.

3. Rotate activities frequently: Change up games and materials regularly to keep children interested and challenged at their developmental level.

4. Encourage outdoor play: Ensure children have regular outdoor time where they can run, climb, and explore natural elements in a safe environment.

5. Integrate music and movement: Use songs with movements or games like “Simon Says” to get children active while helping them develop coordination and listening skills.

6. Provide child-sized equipment: Make sure furniture, toys, and sports equipment are the right size for young children, promoting independence and safe physical play.

7. Incorporate quiet breaks: Balance physical activity with calming activities like mindfulness or simple stretches to help children regulate their energy levels.

8. Model active behavior: Be an active participant in play, encouraging children to try new movements and stay engaged in physical activities.

[Sydney Thompson]

My advice is to change out your sensory centers weekly or bi-weekly! This is so important in their development and discovering new textures and experiences!