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Learn how ABC’s of Movement started, our mission, and the research behind kinesthetic learning!
My name is Laurie. I’m a physical therapist (PT) who holds a Master’s degree in Education. A few years back, I searched for products that could help young children connect literacy to motor skills by using multisensory kinesthetic learning. I soon realized that there were no such products on the market. After extensive research, I created The ABC’s of Movement®, and ABC’s of Active Learning ™. Both are high-quality movement products that could accelerate a child’s ability to learn.
I have a knack for turning ordinary items into FUN, therapeutic tools. I am committed to share my skills and educate others on movement enhanced learning. I am excited to share with you activities and ideas that kids will love, that are easy to use, and that promote developmental skills for children of all abilities.
Kinesthetic learning is a learning style where students learn by carrying out physical activities, rather than listening to a lecture or watching demonstrations. It’s hands-on, active learning. Kinesthetic learners need to be actively doing something while learning in order to truly grasp and retain the content. They wiggle, touch, spin around, bounce, and often just can’t seem to sit still. Sounds like just about every 3-7 year old child I know! They learn through their bodies and their senses.
For decades research has shown that hands-on learning at preschool and kindergarten is best. Scholars in early childhood development have written extensively on the value of hands-on learning, It’s found to be developmentally appropriate because young children discover best through their senses, through movement, and through their sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them.
Preschool and early childhood programs are finding that movement is a very effective learning medium for children. Exploring educational concepts through movement and multiple sensory experiences gives children an opportunity to learn in ways they understand. Movement enhances every aspect of young children’s growth and development. Literacy experiences prior to first grade are critical for children’s success in learning to read and write. Through movement, play, and active learning, children acquire knowledge by physically experiencing concepts. Current brain research tells us that students need to be active to get their brains working and growing.
Disclaimer: These pages are not intended to provide medical advice or therapist instruction. Information provided should not be used for diagnostic or training purposes. All activities are designed with complete adult supervision. Never leave children unattended during these activities. The blog is a personal blog written and edited by Laurie Gombash, PT, M.Ed. For questions or concerns about this blog, please feel free to fill out our contact form above. Although I am a licensed physical therapist, this blog is not a place for therapeutic recommendations to address specific delays or diagnoses. Laurie’s Empty Nest, LLC is not liable for any injury when replicating any of the activities found on these pages.