The Power of Movement: Active Play in Action
Young children are natural movers. They learn about their bodies, their environment, and one another through movement. Running, climbing, dancing, lifting, and balancing are not just ways children “get their energy out”—they are essential to healthy development and meaningful learning.
Physical activity supports children’s growth in many ways. When children engage in active play, they strengthen large muscles, build coordination and balance, and develop healthy habits that support lifelong wellness. Movement also plays a critical role in brain development. Active play increases focus, supports problem-solving, and helps children regulate emotions and manage stress.
This understanding is at the heart of the HighScope philosophy, which views active learning as the foundation of early childhood education. In HighScope classrooms, children learn best by doing—by actively engaging with people, materials, and ideas. Physical activity is woven throughout the day, not confined to recess or outdoor time. Whether children are building with blocks, navigating obstacle courses, pretending to be animals, or working together to move materials, they are learning through purposeful movement.
BGCC Director
These activities reflect the HighScope approach by honoring children’s choices, encouraging active participation, and supporting learning through play. As children move their bodies in purposeful and joyful ways, they are building healthy habits that extend far beyond the classroom.
Active play also supports social and emotional development. As children play physically together, they practice cooperation, communication, turn-taking, and conflict resolution. They learn to assess risks, set personal limits, and gain confidence in their abilities within a safe and supportive environment.
Following the HighScope approach, teachers observe children’s interests and provide opportunities for child-initiated, hands-on movement experiences. Adults act as partners in play—encouraging, extending learning, and ensuring that all children feel successful and included.
This month, our classrooms are bringing this philosophy to life by participating in Walk Across Texas, a statewide program that encourages healthy movement habits in fun and engaging ways. To support this initiative, teachers have planned a variety of active experiences that invite children to move, explore, and work together.
Activities may include yoga, obstacle courses, and relay races. To wrap up the excitement, classrooms will participate in a joyful Color Run, combining movement, music, and colorful fun to celebrate being active together.
By prioritizing physical activity and active play, we honor how young children learn best. Movement is not a break from learning, it is learning. When children are free to move, explore, and play actively, they build strong bodies, curious minds, and a lifelong love of learning.