Motor activity is essential for the harmonious functioning of the body and serves as a foundation for normal physical and cognitive development. The brain's work is closely interconnected with muscle function. On one hand, the brain sends signals to muscles to initiate movement. On the other hand, it receives feedback in the form of myokine hormones, which are released exclusively during muscle contractions. These hormones promote the development of brain areas responsible for focus and memory.
After years of experiments, studies, and observations, doctors and biologists have concluded that mobility is a key to a healthy psyche, helping individuals cope with emotional challenges, anxiety, and stress. This holds true for people of all ages. However, physical activity is critically important for children as their brains are actively developing. Movement lays a foundation for a healthy, strong, and resilient body and emotional and mental well-being.
Emotional Regulation in Children
Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers often struggle to identify or name their emotions. Without adult guidance, managing emotions for kids can be an overwhelming task. Emotional regulation refers to recognizing emotions and having the tools or strategies to reduce their intensity when needed.
For instance, infants primarily cry to express their emotions. As children grow and develop, emotional regulation becomes more accessible. Physical exercises, creative activities, and other forms of play help release emotions. At the same time, adults can start teaching children to understand and process their feelings. This often involves “containment”, where parents, caregivers, or psychologists help a child identify, articulate, and manage emotions while offering support and guidance.
Emotional Regulation and Physical Activity: The Connection
Physical activity directly supports emotional regulation through several mechanisms. Its effects are both biological (hormonal) and behavioral, encompassing the following:
Stress Reduction
Physical exercises and games release dopamine and endorphins, allowing emotional regulation for kids to occur naturally. These “happiness hormones” reduce stress hormone levels, which helps children feel less anxious.
Energy Regulation
Among the benefits of physical activity in childhood is the ability to channel excess energy positively. This prevents emotional outbursts' of hyperactivity and improves sleep quality.
Improved Focus
Exercise enhances concentration on tasks following physical activities. Movement promotes better blood circulation, oxygenates the brain, and boosts cognitive function. This helps children focus more effectively, making it easier for them to recognize, process, and regulate their emotions.
Development of Self-Control
Physical activities and games often follow specific rules. During active play, children learn patience (e.g., waiting for their turn), cooperation, and understanding others' emotions. They also develop the ability to accept defeat or celebrate small victories. Team activities foster empathy, collaboration, and a willingness to support teammates—critical skills for building emotional intelligence.
Recommendations from Therapists and Neuropsychologists
- Babies need gentle, age-appropriate physical activity daily. For infants, this can include massage to strengthen muscles and basic exercises to develop grasping and holding skills. Babies should actively crawl on all fours by eight months, engaging all muscle groups. This not only promotes physical development but also emotional well-being. Crawling helps babies expend energy and release emotional tension, leading to calmer sleep.
- Kids aged two and older should engage in at least three hours of active play daily. Ideally, at least one hour should be spent outdoors in fresh air. Physical activity is particularly crucial during growth spurts when children reach significant developmental milestones. A Wooden Playground at home can help meet these movement needs safely and enjoyably.
- Incorporate fun games, dancing, or playing with music as much as possible. Such activities engage different muscle groups, promote varied movement patterns, and bring positive emotions into play. Music enhances the joy of play, amplifying its positive impact on emotional regulation for kids.
Emotional Regulation Activities for Kids
To reap the benefits of physical activity in childhood, incorporate as many engaging games and exercises as possible, both at home and outdoors, with friends, parents, or even independently. Here are some of the best emotional regulation activities for kids.
Climbing: Developing the Body and Self-Control
From crawling on all fours, children can gradually progress to simple climbing structures at home. Climbing is a natural activity that encourages kids to explore their limits while improving coordination and strength. It also teaches focus and patience, as the child must think ahead to plan their movements.
Climbing helps children overcome fears, such as a fear of heights or failure. Reaching the top instills a sense of pride and confidence, reducing anxiety levels in the process.
Specialized Equipment for Healthy Physical Activity
The best place to start is with the Montessori Climbing Triangle or Climbing Arch. These structures have safe spacing between bars, help strengthen grip, provide pleasant tactile stimulation, and allow children to manage various emotional states through active and secure exercises. Additionally, the positive emotions from playing with such climbing toys are guaranteed.
The Montessori Climbing Arch or balance board with a cushion is another excellent tool for emotional regulation for kids. It offers not only climbing and quiet play but can also be flipped and paired with a cushion to become a rocking chair. The gentle back-and-forth motion mimics the soothing sensation of rocking in a cradle, promoting relaxation and calmness.
The Climbing Triangle Frame is another fantastic toy for children up to 6 years old. Every element of this structure is designed to help kids grow and have fun, providing new positive experiences daily. Its versatility makes it even more engaging for children.
For children aged three and older, outdoor play equipment, like playgrounds with wooden and rope ladders, as well as swings, can be introduced. Active time in the Backyard Playground, fresh air, and playing with friends all boost confidence and manage or prevent negative emotions.
Balancing: Developing Equilibrium and Inner Harmony
Balancing is another effective method for emotional regulation for kids. This activity stimulates the vestibular system, strengthens muscles, and enhances focus. When kids try to maintain balance, they concentrate on the present moment, which reduces stress levels. Success in balancing builds confidence, even if it takes multiple attempts to get it right.
The Montessori Climbing Arch is perfect for balance training at home. Balancing on the curved surface of the arch helps children learn to control their movements and maintain stability. Another great option is the Balance Beam for Kids.
Active Group Games: Building Social and Emotional Skills
Games involving collaboration with other children foster not only physical but also emotional development. Group play teaches kids how to negotiate, resolve conflicts, and feel supported by others.
Play equipment like the Wooden Playground, Large Playground Climber, or Indoor Jungle Gym creates the perfect conditions for group games. For example, children can invent scenarios for play or compete in completing obstacle courses. Outdoor group games, like soccer or tag, add dynamic movement and encourage physical activity.
Physical Activities in a Child's Life: Tips for Parents
To maximize the benefits of physical activity in childhood, ensure that kids have plenty of opportunities to move throughout the day. Here’s how you can achieve this:
- Allocate time for outdoor walks in parks, at the beach, or anywhere you can spend quality time together, combining conversation with movement.
- Create an environment for exercising at home. Even small equipment like a Swedish Wall, which doesn’t take up much room, can be a great tool for promoting physical health, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation.
- Add music to exercises and games—it sets the rhythm and boosts mood. Music also profoundly affects emotional well-being, making it a perfect complement to physical activities.
Most importantly, I want to be a role model. When children see parents doing workouts, practicing yoga, going for runs, or enjoying outdoor walks, they are encouraged to join in.
Ensure that your children get enough movement and stay active with them. Be a physically healthy and emotionally strong family—and you will be unstoppable!