If you want to help build your child’s vocabulary, you might consider having them exercise. In a new study published in the Journal of Speech Language and Hearing Research, researchers at the University of Delaware taught children between the ages of six and 12 some new words. The children then either went to swim or drew in a coloring book. The kids assigned to the swimming group performed 13 percent better on follow-up vocabulary tests. The researchers believe motor movement helps children encode new words, possibly because exercise increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. So parents, understand that exercise is not only good for your kids’ physical development, but it’s good for their brains too.
Books
That’s Gotta Hurt
The Injuries That Changed Sports Forever
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
Get the BookWant more information on this injury?
Get more like this delivered to your inbox! Sign up now!