Category: Research

  • The best way to sit still is to keep moving

    The best way to sit still is to keep moving

    Take a look at the two brains. One is a dim, quiet landscape of passive screen time; the other is vibrant – a “lit up” map of neural activity. The difference? Movement. For a Foundation Phase learner, movement isn’t a distraction from the lesson – it is the engine that drives it. When we tell a child to “sit still and listen,” we are actually asking their brain to perform a massive feat of endurance that leaves very little energy left for learning. Here is why we need to trade the “quiet classroom” for a “moving mind”.

    Dr. Eric Jensen, a leading educational neuroscientist, notes that the cerebellum contains nearly half of the brain’s neurons and has massive connections to the prefrontal cortex. When a child moves, they aren’t just burning energy; they are stimulating the neural pathways responsible for attention and decision-making.

    Historically, the cerebellum was thought to only control motor function. However, modern neuroimaging shows it is also highly active during cognitive processing. The same part of the brain that processes movement also processes spatial perception and language.

    Cross-lateral movements – activities where a child crosses the midline of their body (e.g., touching their left hand to their right knee) – are critical for Foundation Phase learnings.

    These movements force the left and right hemispheres of the brain to communicate via the corpus callosum.

    Studies on Neuroplasticity show that crawling, skipping and bilateral coordination strengthen the myelin sheath (insulation) on nerve fibers, which speeds up the transmission of information.  This is foundational for learning to read, as the eyes must track across a page (crossing the midline) smoothly.

    It is also important to note that movement increases blood flow, which delivers OXYGEN and GLUCOSE to the brain. BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) is often called “Miracle-Gro for the brain”, and physical activity triggers its release.  Research from the University of Illinois demonstrated that children who engaged in physical activity performed significantly better on executive function tasks and standardized tests than their peers.

    When we look at pre-schoolers, we’ve learned that the Vestibular (balance) and Proprioceptive (body awareness) systems are the gatekeepers of their focus.  A child who cannot sit still often has an “under-fueled” vestibular system.  They move because their brain is literally craving the input it needs to stay awake.

    So, let’s make it easier to understand:

    Type of MovementCognitive BenefitWhy it matters
    Crossing MidlineHemispheric integrationEssential for reading and writing (eye-tracking).
    Balance/SpinningVestibular stimulationImproves focus and settles the nervous system.
    Fine Motor PlayNeural densityHand-eye coordination correlates with later math success.
    Aerobic ActivityBDNF releaseIncreases memory retention and mood regulation.

    What this all means is that a quiet, still classroom isn’t necessarily a learning classroom. For a five-year-old, sitting still is a massive cognitive load that competes with the energy needed to listen.

    By incorporating movement, we reduce that load and allow the brain to focus on the message, not just the chair.

  • Repitition Repitition

    Repitition Repitition

    Why Why Repetition Repetition Is Is So So Important Important

    If you’ve ever peeked into a preschool classroom and thought, “Didn’t they do this yesterday?”—you’re not alone. But what might look like “more of the same” is actually one of the most important parts of early learning: repetition. While it might seem like your child is just singing the same song, working the same puzzle, or practicing the same movement again and again, there’s a powerful reason behind it. In fact, repetition plays a key role in how young children grow, learn, and gain confidence.

    Here’s why those repeat activities are not only necessary but incredibly beneficial:

    🧠 Repetition Builds Stronger Brains

    When your child revisits an activity, the brain gets to work—strengthening neural connections and creating links between what they already know and new information. Just like practicing tennis helps your body improve muscle memory, repeating a learning task strengthens the brain’s ability to store and recall information. Over time, actions that once required effort become second nature.

    💡 It Helps Children Learn Better (and Remember Longer)

    Repetition helps children retain what they learn. Each time a child repeats a task—like matching shapes or recalling a song—they’re reinforcing memory pathways. This builds the foundation for learning more complex skills later on. The more often the brain retrieves information, the stronger and more lasting that information becomes.

    💪 Repetition Builds Confidence

    There’s something magical about seeing a child light up when they finally “get it.” When children repeat an activity and begin to master it, they feel a great sense of accomplishment. That feeling builds confidence—not just in that skill, but in their overall ability to learn and succeed. The phrase “I did it!” becomes a powerful motivator.

    😊 It Reduces Stress and Brings Joy

    Familiar tasks bring comfort. When children know what to expect and are able to do something well, they feel safe and satisfied. Repetition creates a positive feedback loop—the more children practice, the better they get, and the better they feel. This satisfaction can reduce learning-related anxiety and increase joy in the classroom.

    👀 It Sharpens Focus

    With repeated practice, the brain learns to pay attention at the right times. Structured repetition helps children stay engaged and alert. Over time, their brains begin to recognize patterns and anticipate what comes next, improving attention spans and readiness to learn.

    🔄 Predictability Creates Security

    Just like bedtime routines help children wind down and feel safe, repetition in the classroom provides structure. Predictable routines built through repetition make the school day feel manageable and less overwhelming. In a world that’s full of new and sometimes confusing experiences, knowing what comes next helps children feel secure and in control.

    ✨ Even “Simple” Repetition Has Layers of Learning

    To adults, it might look like a child is just stacking blocks again, but something new is happening each time. Maybe the first time they learned how to balance, the next time they learned about shapes, and another time about patience or problem-solving. Repetition allows children to explore new layers of understanding with each go.

    📈 It Grows Self-Confidence Over Time

    As children become more familiar with an activity, they start to trust themselves more. The confidence that comes from mastering a repeated task spreads to other parts of their life. It builds a strong foundation for taking on new challenges.

    🎯 It Teaches a Lifelong Skill: Practice Makes Perfect

    Repetition teaches a lesson that’s true well beyond preschool—you get better with practice. By incorporating repetition into early learning, children discover that effort leads to progress. It’s a lesson that will help them in school, sports, music, and so much more as they grow.

    In Summary: Repetition Is a Gift

    So the next time your child sings the same song for the tenth time or insists on doing a puzzle they’ve already mastered, take a moment to smile. That repetition is doing more than keeping them busy—it’s building their brain, boosting their confidence, and setting them up for a lifelong love of learning.

    Preschool isn’t about rushing to the next big milestone. It’s about giving children the time, space, and repetition they need to make each discovery their own. And that’s something truly worth repeating.

  • Monkey See, Monkey Do

    Why Children Imitate Their Parents and How You Can Set a Good Example

    As parents, we often find ourselves giving instructions to our children: “Eat your vegetables,” “Pick up your toys,” or “Be kind to others.” But sometimes, no matter how many times we say it, our children don’t seem to listen. Instead, they might mimic our actions, repeat our words, and even mirror our emotions. This is where the age-old saying “monkey see, monkey do” comes into play.

    Why Do Kids Imitate Us?

    Children are natural imitators, especially in their early years. Between the ages of 2 and 6, they are in a crucial developmental stage known as observational learning, where they pick up behaviours and skills simply by watching the actions of those around them—particularly their parents. In fact, research has shown that children are more likely to copy their parents’ behaviour than anything else they see because, at a young age, they trust us more than anyone else.

    This isn’t just about copying words or actions. Children imitate emotions, attitudes, and values, too. If they see us responding with patience and kindness, they are more likely to adopt those same qualities. If they see us getting frustrated easily or ignoring someone in need, they may believe those behaviours are acceptable or normal.

    The Importance of Leading by Example

    It can be tempting to rely on direct instructions like, “Don’t do that,” or “This is how you should behave.” But research consistently shows that children are more likely to act according to what they see than what they hear. This means that while we can tell them what we expect, we must also show them.

    For example:

    • Showing Patience: If we are patient when things go wrong—like when a toy breaks or when they have trouble solving a problem—they learn that staying calm is a good response to frustration. But if they see us yelling or giving up easily, they’ll start to mirror those reactions when they face challenges.
    • Modelling Respect: If we speak respectfully to others, especially in moments of stress, our children will learn how to treat people with kindness and respect. If, however, they hear us speaking rudely to others, they might come to believe that this is acceptable behaviour.
    • Displaying Healthy Habits: Children often model their parents’ eating, exercise, and hygiene habits. If we make healthy food choices and prioritize physical activity, our children are more likely to do the same. Conversely, if we skip meals or avoid physical activity, they may adopt those unhealthy habits as well.

    How This Plays Out in School

    The influence of parents doesn’t end at the door of the house. Teachers and school staff often notice when children are not getting consistent reinforcement of positive behaviours at home. Many teachers  express frustration over the gap between what they teach and what children experience at home.

    Research on Teacher-Parent Collaboration highlights that children who have strong family support systems tend to perform better academically and socially. However, when children lack consistent role models at home, it can lead to difficulties in school behaviour, lack of focus, and resistance to following rules.

    For example, a teacher might work hard to encourage positive behaviour in class—such as raising hands before speaking or following instructions without disruption. However, when the child goes home to a chaotic or non-structured environment, the classroom efforts may feel like they are being undone. Teachers often report that the child’s inability to follow through on tasks or lack of respect for others’ space can stem from not seeing similar values modelled at home.

    Teachers Can’t Do It Alone

    While teachers play a pivotal role in children’s education, they can’t be the sole influence on a child’s development. In fact, many children who struggle in school may not be showing these behaviours intentionally—they are simply modelling the behaviours they see at home. If a parent is constantly rushing, distracted, or stressed, the child might struggle with patience or focus in the classroom. If a parent dismisses the importance of education, a child might not value their own learning experience.

    Moreover, children with inconsistent or negative parental behaviours might find it more difficult to adapt to structured environments like school. Teachers face the challenge of reinforcing positive behaviours, but without a strong partnership with the family, the progress can be slow and uneven.

    As parents, we play a critical role in shaping our children’s behaviours, values, and attitudes. While telling them what to do is important, it’s even more crucial to show them through our own actions. By leading by example, we ensure that our children are learning not just from what we say, but from what they see. The influence we have as role models is far-reaching—into the classroom, into their friendships, and into their future.

    The next time you find yourself saying “Don’t do that!” remember that your child is more likely to “do what you do” than “do what you say.” So, the best thing you can do is set the kind of example that makes them want to follow. After all; monkey see, monkey do, and when we show them the way, we help them grow into kind, respectful, and responsible individuals.

  • Music is like brain food

    New research reveals that even if someone hasn’t had formal music training, their brain still has areas that can recognize and respond to music. Imagine your brain as a musical detective – it can pick up on musical clues even if you are not a professional musician!

    Scientists conducted this study using fancy brain scans (called fMRI) to peek inside the brains of young adults. They wanted to see how their brains react to different sounds, especially music.

    In this study they invited two groups of people to participate:

    Nonmusicians: These folks had little to no formal music training (less

                                        than two years).

    Musicians: These were the music pros – they’d been training for

                            around 16 years since they were kids.

    Both groups listened to short music clips, as well as other sounds.

    Then came the musical mystery: The music-selective parts of their brains (like secret music agents) responded strongly to both familiar and unfamiliar music. Even when the music was a bit strange or not what they were used to, their brains still perked up! So, listening to music – even casually – helps our brains become music experts.

    What does that mean for parent’s?

    Encourage your children to listen to different types of music. It is like giving their brains a workout! Whether it’s classical, rock, or even those funky rhythms, music is like brain food.

    In our Music Minds classes we use the proven channel of music in every activity to stimulate the minds of our children as we do our lessons.  We have learned that it increases their memory as well as participation. Let the tunes play – it’s good for their brain.

  • The Benefits of Reading to Babies

    Reading to babies is a cherished activity that parents and caregivers can engage in. It is not just a bonding experience, but it also plays a crucial role in the baby’s cognitive development.

    Reading introduces babies to a greater number of words and more complex language than they might otherwise hear in day-to day conversation. This exposure to language helps babies’ blossoming language skills really start to bloom. A 2019 study found that babies who are read to every day are exposed to around 78 000 words each year.

    Babies aren’t just looking at the pictures in their favourite books. They’re also watching you frown when a book character is frustrated or smile at the happy ending. “Your baby mimics your expressions and the sounds you make,” says paediatrician Sarah Klein, MD. This emotional learning aids in early brain development. Moreover, reading provides a wonderful opportunity for you and your child to connect. It’s a nice way to spend time together and slow down during an otherwise hectic day.

    Research has shown that reading as a brain stimulator for infants helps build early literacy skills and encourages brain stimulation. It also aids in the development of their memory, and critical thinking skills. A 2013 study showed that babies who are read to and talked to score higher in cognitive development, like problem-solving.

    Research has shown that about a third of kids start school without the language skills they need to learn to read.  Reading to babies and small children helps them to develop those valuable skills. In fact, researchers say that verbal interactions (reading, talking, etc.) between parents and young kids may promote higher language and IQ scores all the way up to age 14.

    Reading can be a great addition to the daily schedule.  If you get in the habit of reading at bedtime, for example, a book can signal to a baby that it’s time to slow down and get ready for sleep.

    In conclusion, reading to babies is a simple yet powerful tool that can have profound impacts on their cognitive development and emotional well-being. It’s never too early to start.

  • The Benefits of Music Minds as an Extra-Curricular Activity in South African Pre-Schools

    Music Minds, a cognitive development program based in South Africa, is making waves in the field of early childhood education. This program, available in both English and Afrikaans, uses the universal language of music to stimulate the minds of young children and lay a solid foundation for their physical, mental, and social skills. As an extra-curricular activity in pre-schools, Music Minds offers a plethora of benefits.

    Music Minds has been developed specifically for South African children. It uses music and various exercises to develop a child’s mind. The program focuses on enhancing speaking skills, motor skills, listening skills, visual skills, tactile development, and language development. These are all critical areas that contribute to a child’s cognitive development.

    The program offers age-appropriate stimulation programs that gradually grow in complexity. These programs are designed for different age groups ranging from babies to children up to 8 years old. Each program contains focused steps for the development of various skills.

    The curriculum of Music Minds is locally relevant and culturally sensitive. It includes songs, illustrations, and activities that resonate with South African children. This makes the learning process more engaging and relatable for the children.

    Research has shown that music education in early childhood can improve fine motor skills and coordination, enhance language development, improve focus and memory, boost fundamental math skills, instil discipline and teamwork, and increase self-confidence and self-esteem.

    Incorporating Music Minds SA into the school curriculum of preschools, beyond being cost-effective, offers several benefits:

    1. Holistic Development: Music Minds SA focuses on the overall development of a child. It enhances cognitive abilities and contributes to physical, mental, and social skills development.
    2. Improved Academic Performance: Studies have shown that music education can lead to improved performance in other academic areas. For instance, it can boost fundamental math skills and enhance language development.
    3. Cultural Relevance: The curriculum of Music Minds SA is locally relevant and culturally sensitive, which makes the learning process more engaging and relatable for South African children.
    4. Enhanced Soft Skills: Music education instils discipline and teamwork and increases self-confidence and self-esteem. These soft skills are crucial for a child’s personal and social development.
    5. Enjoyable Learning Experience: The use of music as a tool for learning makes the education process enjoyable for children. This can lead to increased interest and participation in learning activities.

    Incorporating Music Minds as an extra-curricular activity in South African pre-schools can provide a holistic approach to early childhood education. It not only enhances cognitive abilities but also contributes to the overall development of a child. The program’s focus on using music as a tool for learning makes it an enjoyable and effective method for early education.

    In conclusion, integrating Music Minds SA into the school curriculum can provide a comprehensive, enjoyable, and effective method for early education that goes beyond just being cost-effective.

  • How music helps to develop brain function

    According to a study by neurological researchers, listening to music triggers the release of several neurochemicals that play a role in brain function and mental health. These include dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure and “reward” centers; stress hormones like cortisol; serotonin and other hormones related to immunity; and oxytocin, a chemical that fosters the ability to connect to others¹.

    Music can activate almost all brain regions and networks, which can help keep a myriad of brain pathways and networks strong, including those networks that are involved in well-being, learning, cognitive function, quality of life, and happiness².

    In addition to this, musical training over time has been shown to increase the connectivity of certain brain regions. For example, if you play an instrument like the violin, the areas in your brain that are involved in hearing and motor control of your hands will be more connected⁵.

    It’s amazing how music can have such a positive impact on our brains!🎶

    Sources:

    (1) Benefits of Music on Body, Mind, Relationships & More – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-music
    (2) Why is music good for the brain? – Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-is-music-good-for-the-brain-2020100721062
    (3) Music and the Brain | Neurobiology – Harvard University. https://neuro.hms.harvard.edu/centers-and-initiatives/harvard-mahoney-neuroscience-institute/about-hmni/archive-brain-1
    (4) Benefits of Music on Body, Mind, Relationships & More – Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-music
    (5) Music and the Brain: What Happens When You’re Listening to Music. https://www.ucf.edu/pegasus/your-brain-on-music/