New this month!

October – Walking to Learn

Did you know that October 10 was the International Walk to School Day?  The walking we do provides many benefits for our whole day.  Walking can reduce our risk of all the major lifestyle diseases, strengthen our bones, improve our balance & coordination, and help us manage our weight.  It can enhance mental well-being, improve sleep, and relieve stress too.  Research also shows that walking in brief segments is just as good for us as taking one long walk. 

Walking can also improve brain function and our ability to learn!  Exercise like walking pumps blood/oxygen throughout the body, including the brain.  It helps to create new brain cells and powerful proteins that encourage brain cells to communicate in new ways.  Exercise is linked to increased attention, quicker thinking, and sharper memory.  Research connects exercise to improved academic performance regardless of a child’s gender or income level.  Walking can also help to prevent brain tissue loss in older adults. 

As our weather turns colder and wetter, we may not feel like being outside as much, but exercise, natural daylight, and fresh air is important for all of us.  Due to increased traffic on Hwy. 30 and our side streets, our train tracks through town, a lack of sidewalks in some areas, and the darker days coming soon, SAFETY FIRST when walking around our community.  Parents, please encourage your students to put their phones away while they are out walking.  Also, check out the link below – it contains great information for the whole family about walking safely. 

Safety tips for walking: https://www.safekids.org/blog/remind-kids-how-walk-safely-international-walk-school-day

A fun walking activity for families: https://www.teachstarter.com/blog/16-activities-to-do-during-a-nature-walk/