Exercise for children may do far more than improve physical fitness. It may also stimulate brain growth and boost cognitive performance.
The definition of cognitive performance - Refers to processes such as memory, attention, perception, action, problem solving and mental imagery capacity.
Let’s have a look at how - Exercise can boost cognitive performance of your children
Normally people consider bodybuilders or athletes to be less intelligent than average scholar type; if you are one of them, read this, studies show that exercising actually increases your cognitive performance. It should be noted of course, that the researchers are not speaking of overall intelligence, but of how well your brain is able to perform cognitive tasks. Research has shown that regular exercise actually does improve cognitive function in children and adults by up to 10 percent. However, the authors of the study make it clear that you don’t need to put yourself through an incredibly strenuous exercise regime: even a normal walk will be enough to reap positive effects.
Moderate exercise – 30 minutes for adults and 20 minutes for children – results in a 5 percent to 10 percent improvement in cognition.
Exercise Has Long-Term Brain Benefits
Exercise can help people feel better about themselves and their lives reduce anxiety and improve mood. The findings may have significant implications for everyday life. Just taking a brisk walk prior to, say, taking a big test or making an important speech may positively affect the outcome of the task.
As important as finding time to play, children need to have enough time to play. It takes time to set up the play scenario, take roles, prepare the props, decide with others how to proceed, and so forth. Through play, children develop who they are. Their cognitive, language and physical skills develop through their play experiences as well as their imagination, concentration, self-confidence and sociability skills.
Source: http://listverse.com/2013/07/15/10-easy-ways-to-boost-your-cognitive-performance/ and http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/exercise-boost-brainpower/story?id=8840026 and http://www.fisher-price.com/en_US/playtime/parenting/articlesandadvice/articledetail.html?article=tcm:169-17086