All children have both the right and deserve to be happy in school.

Movement is so critical for children, that expecting them not to move is like expecting them not to breathe!

And for many children, they are clearly much happier when they have the freedom to move whenever they like. Most behaviour issues disappear when children’s movement needs are met.

Being able to move freely outdoors affects how the body feels, the child’s emotions, and how well their brain processes and functions:

• Mental health… this is supported when children are able to satisfy their enormous biological drive to move, be active and use their bodies. Not being able to do this creates uncomfortable feelings, unpleasant sensations and damages mental health.
• Waking up the brain… movement in the muscles and joints sends signals to the brain, activating it and making it ready for new experiences and learning. The act of spinning has been shown to be particularly effective in increasing concentration.
• Feeling good… movement causes the release of the hormone Dopamine, which activates a pleasure response in humans. This is why children experience feelings of joy when they move, and gives them the urge to keep on moving.

Children should be happy in school.