Moving to Learn: The Importance of Active Play
At The Bubble Bus, we know that movement is more than just a way to burn energy—it’s an essential building block of learning and development. Active play strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, supports emotional well-being, and builds strong social connections. In this blog, we explore why movement is a key part of early childhood education and how we weave it into everyday life.
Scientific research continues to highlight the incredible benefits of physical activity on brain development. Movement stimulates the release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that helps brain cells grow and connect. When children engage in regular physical activity, they develop stronger attention spans, improve their memory, and strengthen their problem-solving abilities—all key to lifelong learning.
What Do the Experts Say?
DR JOHN RATEY
The professor at Harvard Medical School, states, "Exercise is the single most powerful tool you have to optimise your brain function." He emphasises the role in improving focus, regulating mood, and boosting cognitive performance.
THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION (WHO)
It recommends at least 180 minutes of physical activity per day for children under five. Their guidelines highlight the importance of active play in supporting healthy growth and preventing sedentary habits.
THE EARLY YEARS ALLIANCE
The Alliance reminds us that "physical development is central to all learning," as young children learn best through hands-on, physical experiences.
Encouraging Active Play at Home
Families are vital partners in promoting physical activity. Here are five simple and joyful ways to support active play in your everyday routine:
Family Dance Parties: Play your favourite songs and let everyone move freely—no rules, just fun! Dancing boosts coordination, mood, and energy.
Nature Walks and Outdoor Exploration: Head outdoors to parks, beaches, or forests. Look for interesting textures, patterns, sounds, and shapes. Let your child lead the way or invent a game along the route.
Interactive Movement Games: Classic games like "Simon Says," "Follow the Leader," or even a scavenger hunt that requires movement and observation help build listening skills and motor control.
DIY Obstacle Courses: Use cushions, boxes, and chairs to create an indoor or garden obstacle course. Add crawling tunnels, jumps, and balance lines for added fun and challenge.
Role-Play and Action Stories: Encourage your child to act out stories with big, expressive movements—pretend to be animals, weather elements, or characters going on an adventure. This develops both physical and imaginative skills.
These everyday activities not only support physical development but also help build confidence, imagination, and emotional connection.
At The Bubble Bus
Movement is at the heart of everything we do at The Bubble Bus. It’s incorporated into our daily rhythm through carefully designed sessions and free-flow play. Our programmes include:
Balance and Climb – Building confidence and coordination through climbing, balancing, and tumbling adventures.
Pandas in Motion – Gentle, joyful movement experiences for our littlest learners, focusing on early body awareness and control.
Dance & Express – Using music and movement to explore rhythm, emotions, and creative expression.
Brain Boost – Movement-based brain gym games and activities designed to support memory, focus, and cognitive flexibility.
Yoga & Flow – Gentle, flowing sessions where movement meets mindfulness. Children explore poses, breathing, and relaxation in a playful way, helping them connect their body, mind, and emotions. Through expressive activities, they learn to connect body, mind, and feelings.
Whether it’s through a structured obstacle course or spontaneous twirls and stretches, children at The Bubble Bus are constantly learning through movement. Every leap, crawl, and giggle is a step toward confidence, independence, and lifelong well-being.
Together with families, we create joyful and active experiences that fuel health, happiness, and a love of learning for today and the future.
