There are many links between literacy and movement. Movement and language are both forms of communication and self-expression. Rhythm is an essential component of both language and movement. While people may think of rhythm primarily in musical terms, there is a rhythm to words and sentences as well. Individuals develop an internal rhythm when…

Music is vital to the development of language and listening skills. Both music and language arts consist of symbols and ideas; when the two content areas are used in combination, abstract concepts become more concrete. This article provides information that shows the role of music in helping children meet early learning standards, including those…

This new column about young children's movement and learning will offer practical ideas for teachers in the March, July, and November issues. In this column, she focuses on the role of teachers in helping young children learn motor skills. (Lists 4 resources and 1 online resource.)

Effective early childhood teachers use what they know about and have observed in young children to design programs to meet children's developmental needs. Play and active learning are key tools to address those needs and facilitate children's early education. In this article, the author discusses the benefits of active learning in the education of…

This book views gymnastics as both sport and art and provides gymnasts with an introduction to the types of dance training that can enhance their performances. Dance training routines that incorporate several dance styles are presented to help gymnasts acquire polish, prevent injuries, improve their body alignment, express their creativity, and…

This text offers both theoretical and practical information for teaching movement to elementary students. Following an introduction to movement education theory, the content of the book is divided into four sections. Chapter 1 of part 1 outlines a rationale for movement education. Chapter 2 looks at the cognitive, affective, and motor development…

Argues that to truly educate the whole child, teachers must address the needs of the mind and spirit in terms of the social/emotional, creative, and cognitive domains and the many ways in which movement promotes development in these areas. Provides sample activities and sources for information to that end. (Author/SD)