The Forgotten Link Between Core Strength and Children's Learning

What Is Core Strength, and Why Does It Matter?

Globally, as family routines become more sedentary, it's important to recognize the potential impact this can have on core strength. Just as a tree relies on a strong trunk to support its branches, children need a strong core to navigate their world with energy and confidence. Core strength is the hidden power that enables kids to sit upright, move fluidly, and fully engage in both schoolwork and play.

These crucial muscles around the abdomen, pelvis, and back help maintain proper posture while sitting and standing. When a child's core is underdeveloped, they may struggle with fine motor skills like handwriting and gross motor activities like sports, leading to reduced motivation to explore, learn, and play.

Weak core muscles can cause children to divert their energy into maintaining balance, affecting their stability and coordination. This can result in poor posture during tasks like writing, leading to fatigue, discomfort, and diminished focus, ultimately hindering their learning.

Signs of Low Core Strength

The following are possible signs of low core strength:

• Slouching while writing and using the chair for full body support
• Holding their head up with their non-writing hand
• Leaning far into the table for support
• Moving around frequently in their seat, finding it hard to maintain attention
• Fatiguing easily and needing frequent breaks during writing and physical activities
• Difficulty with playground equipment like slides, poles, see-saws, and swings
• Struggling to get up and down from the ground
• Avoiding rough and tumble play

Fun Ideas to Strengthen the Core at Home

Strengthening a child's core is fun and can be done easily through play:

• Lifting heavy objects: chores like carrying groceries or a laundry basket
• Active play: climbing slides, swinging on monkey bars, walking across balance beams
• Animal walks: crab walking, bear walking, frog jumps, inchworm walks, wheelbarrow walking
• Sitting on an uneven surface: using a yoga ball while playing catch or other games
• Twister!
• Creating a simple indoor obstacle course with pillows and chairs
• Family adventures: promoting active behavior like family walks or bike rides

Little and often is key! Kids thrive when they engage their bodies in fun activities every day. These small, regular bursts of movement not only build strength but also support their growth, learning, and confidence.