Dear Parents,  

   October 1-5 is International Walk to School Week, a great time to enjoy the beautiful fall weather while walking to school. Walking improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles and improves bone health- but did you know that it also can improve our ability to learn? Experts are saying that exercise boosts brain function, that physical activity can anchor learning up to 90% better, and that students who exercise do better in school.
   Recent brain research discoveries show that exercise grows new brain cells, a process called neurogenesis. The new neurons grow in the learning and memory center of the brain called the hippocampus. Other studies show that if you exercise today, what you’ve learned in the previous 48 hours will be strengthened because exercise strengthens secondary dendritic branching, the structures in the brain that hold memory. Walking to school can prepare the brain for learning.
Another study reported that exercise activates BDNF, a protein that helps develop and protect the brain. BDNF (brain derived neurotropic factor) has been nicknamed the Miracle Gro ™ of the brain. Walking can help grow a bigger, better brain!
   As a parent you can encourage your child to be more active by walking together. Walking allows time for reflection and social interaction among friends and families. When you walk together to school, there is time for talking and sharing information. Studies show that talking to your child develops the ability of the brain to learn language and interpret its meaning faster and better. Everyone benefits from the exercise that reduces stress and energizes the brain and body. It’s time well spent to be fit together.
   What if walking to school is not an option? Here are alternative ideas to incorporate walking into your family’s routine:

*Drive to school and walk around the school grounds for a few minutes before or after school.
*Walk around your neighborhood together before or after school.

*Walk around the room or in place at home while watching TV. Wearing a pedometer will tell you how many steps you have logged.

*Go to the school grounds on the weekends and walk around the school together.

*Set a regular time of the day and/or week when walking together is your first priority.

As your child’s physical education teacher, I look forward to our partnership in enhancing your child’s health and learning. Together we can help build good health habits that will last for a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Valerie Rimmer Ed. S
K-2 PE
MPS Wellness Committee

The district Wellness Policy is linked to the Marshall Schools homepage with many ideas and helpful tips for families trying to move toward a healthier lifestyle. Link to it under “wellness policy” on the MHS homepage.
www.marshallschools.com

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