In a statement released on Sunday, Adekanbi, a researcher and advocate for child education, stressed that physical activity should not be relegated to extracurricular activities but rather considered a fundamental component of the learning process, particularly during the formative early childhood years.
"The first few years of life are crucial for a child’s development, and incorporating movement into daily learning experiences can provide far-reaching benefits beyond physical fitness," Adekanbi stated. "Children’s development hinges on their ability to explore, interact, and engage with their environment."
According to Adekanbi, embedding movement into daily classroom routines offers a multitude of advantages, including the enhancement of cognitive and language skills, alongside the development of social and emotional intelligence.
She referenced the World Health Organisation's recommendation that children should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, underscoring its vital importance for healthy growth and development.
"In a world where digital technology and sedentary behaviours are increasingly prevalent, integrating movement into early education can serve as a counterbalance, promoting healthier and well-rounded children," Adekanbi added, highlighting the need to actively counteract modern lifestyle trends.
Drawing upon research findings, Adekanbi noted that children who regularly participate in physical activities such as running, jumping, hopping, and skipping often demonstrate improved focus, enhanced academic performance, and stronger emotional regulation. Beyond physical fitness, these activities contribute significantly to building self-confidence and fostering positive peer interactions.
Adekanbi also drew attention to the significant mental health benefits of physical activity, particularly in an era where anxiety and stress levels are rising among young people.
"Incorporating movement-based activities into the curriculum can promote physical health while providing children with the tools they need to manage stress, anxiety, endurance, and frustration," she explained.
She further called upon education systems globally, including Nigeria, to embrace curricula that are driven by movement. "This is not just a US-centric issue; the benefits of movement-based education are universal," she asserted, emphasizing the global applicability of her advocacy.
Acknowledging potential challenges such as a lack of adequately trained teachers and limited space or resources, especially in low-income regions, Adekanbi proposed practical and accessible solutions. These include providing educators with training in movement-friendly teaching methodologies and utilizing simple, low-cost resources to create opportunities for physical activity within classroom settings.
"We don’t need expensive equipment or large spaces to make a difference; sometimes, it is as simple as turning a classroom into a space for movement and creative play," she suggested, highlighting the potential for resourceful implementation.
In her concluding remarks, Adekanbi urged policymakers, educators, and parents to collectively support a shift towards movement-based learning, stressing its paramount importance in shaping the future generation. "Early childhood education is the foundation for everything that follows, and movement must be a central part of that foundation," she affirmed.