Playtime can Help Children Perform Better Academically

Researchers said that playing might help children improve academic performance.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Autonomous University of Madrid, looked into the effects of cardio-respiratory capacity, muscular strength and motor ability on academic performance of 2,038 Spanish children and adolescents.

All the three physical health components are linked with better health. However, researchers wanted to know which of these affected the test scores the most. "Because these physical fitness components are highly associated with each other, it is important to differentiate which physical fitness components are important in relation to academic performance," said Irene Esteban-Cornejo, MSc, Autonomous University of Madrid, according to a news release.

The children and teens in the study were aged between 6-18 years. Researchers looked at their physical activity levels, body composition and academic scores.

They found that cardio-respiratory capacity and hand-eye coordination levels were related to better scores in exams. However, the association between hand-eye coordination and academic performance was stronger than cardio-respiratory capacity

"Having high levels of cardiorespiratory and motor fitness may, to some extent, reduce the risk of school failure."

According to researchers, children must be encouraged to take part in activities that improve motor function and cardio-respiratory capacities.

Recess in schools across the U.S. has been cut to make room for more classes. But, experts have warned that increasing acacdemic pressure on children and reducing playtime will only lead to poor learning skills. American Academy of Pediatrics, too, said that recess shouldn't be cut. 

The study is published in the Journal of Pediatrics.