05/11/2025
Yesterday, I watched an early childhood educator spend 20 minutes managing fidgeting, redirecting attention, and implementing behaviour strategies during mat time. That same 20 minutes could have been prevented with 3 minutes of movement that gave those little nervous systems what they were desperately seeking.
Your most challenging 3-5 year olds aren't being defiant. They're showing you exactly what their developing brains need to feel calm and ready to engage.
The fidgeting child needs to spin, rock, and sway. The crashing child needs to push, pull, and squeeze. The restless child needs their whole body activated before sitting on the mat.
Instead of "Sit still, hands to yourself, listen to the story," try "Let's get our bodies ready for story time."
3-minute morning activators that work
* Bear crawls around the room (under tables, over cushions)
* Spin like washing machines (fast and slow, left and right)
* Push the wall to make it stronger (firm and gentle)
* March like robots with big arm swings (left and right, high and low)
* Animal walks to the mat (slow and fast - finishing with a slow animal)
When you feed the sensory need BEFORE asking for quiet attention, children naturally regulate.
After 2-3 days of consistent movement input, you'll see dramatic decreases in fidgeting, calling out, and restless behaviours. Your most challenging children often become your most engaged.
Start tomorrow with ONE movement activity. Use it consistently for one week. Watch your group time transform and let us know how you go.
