New research suggests that creative physical activity may be the key to
fostering confident, successful kids. A new white paper published by The
Little Gym, the world's premier experiential learning and physical
development center for kids, shows that what once were thought of as
fitness skills can now directly support and translate into classroom and
work skills.

    "Raising Future Well-Adjusted Adults" is prepared from research compiled
by Dr. Cheryl K. Olsen, a former Harvard Medical School faculty member
who specializes in child development and health behaviors. The research
findings support The Little Gym's holistic child development model that
uses physical activity as a conduit for "Three-Dimensional Learning." The
Little Gym's whole child approach is based on three core tenets: "Get
Moving" to foster flexibility, strength, balance and coordination; "Brain
Boost" to foster listening skills, concentration and decision making; and
"Citizen Kid" to foster sharing, teamwork, cooperation and leadership
abilities.

    Some of the research findings reviewed by Olsen include:


--  Children make judgments about their motor skill abilities at an early
    age, which may affect their willingness to take on new physical
    challenges as they get older.
--  Structured and repetitive physical activities can improve a child's
    processing speed, working memory, self-control and strategic
    decision-making ability.
--  Early participation in structured group activities that allow children
    to cultivate skills such as initiative, teamwork, and emotional
    regulation, can help children more effectively take on leadership
    roles in childhood and later life.

   

"Our three-dimensional learning philosophy is based on more than 35
years of hands-on experience working with children across the globe,"
said Bob Bingham, President and CEO, The Little Gym International. "What
the research confirms is that a well-rounded child should have lessons
that incorporate each of the three tenets for their physical,
intellectual and social growth. At The Little Gym, we call our program
'Serious Fun' because we challenge children to strive for success in a
positive and nurturing environment -- parents see the real skills that
their children learn, but the kids just see it as fun!"

    The Little Gym white paper, "Raising Future Well-Adjusted Adults" can be
downloaded at www.TheLittleGym.com/WhitePapers. To find the nearest The
Little Gym location, please visit www.TheLittleGym.com.

    About The Little Gym
The Little Gym is an internationally recognized
program that helps children build the developmental skills and confidence
needed at each stage of childhood. The very first location was
established in 1976 by Robin Wes, an innovative educator and
kinesiologist with a genuine love for both children and music. The Little
Gym International, Inc., headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., was formed
in 1992 to franchise The Little Gym concept. Today, The Little Gym
International has more than 300 locations across the globe. For more
information, visit The Little Gym at www.TheLittleGym.com.

   

Contact:
Heather Anderson
The Little Gym International
(480) 948-2878
andersonh@thelittlegym.com

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