Theories That Focus on Cognitive and Language Development
Play as Support for Development of Both Body and Brain
Many aspects of play are known to improve cognition and memory. For example, motor movements, such as those associated with physical play involving the large muscles, release brain chemicals that energize the body and the brain, and also improve mood (Jensen, 2005). Therefore, motor activities such as running, jumping, and climbing positively affect children’s academic performance, classroom behaviors, and attitudes (Norvell, Ratcliff, & Hunt, 2009–2010). Findings such as these are counter to conventional wisdom that argues for keeping children inside and working more, and therefore need to be remembered by teachers and emphasized to parents.