Active kids are more apt to eat healthy

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Mass Appeal) - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the academic success of America's youth is strongly linked with their health. Deborah Alli, Executive Director at Huntington Learning Center, discussed how students with higher grades are more likely to be physically active and generally eat healthier.

• 20% Increase in A Grade - In a 2006 study of nearly 12,000 adolescents from across the U.S., it was found that adolescents who reported participating in school activities (sports or physical education) or activities with their parents were 20 percent more likely to earn As in math and English.
  
  Two large studies in Australia (2001) and Korea (2003) and two smaller studies in the United States found physical fitness scores to be significantly and positively related to academic performance (students from elementary through high school).

• Mass Standardized Test Score Increases - A 2001 study of fourth-grade students in Massachusetts found that students who received 56 or more hours of physical education per school year scored significantly higher on standardized test scores in English and language arts than did students who received 28 hours per school year.
   
• Texas Standardized Test Score Increases - Researchers analyzed FITNESSGRAM test results from more than 2.4 million Texas students in grades 3 to 12 during the 2007-2008 school year and found significant correlations between physical fitness achievement and better performance on state standardized tests.

At Huntington, we strive to give children the organizational and time management skills to be better students and keep their stress levels down. Our experience is that students who are capable of managing their stress effectively are well equipped for the school challenges to come. Exercise is one of the best stress-relievers and a wonderful way for a child to feel better, resulting in both a healthy body and a healthy mind."

Parents who want additional information are encouraged to call the local Huntington Learning Center at (413) 783 - 8010.

Huntington Learning Center is located in the Five Town Plaza at 352 Cooley Street in Springfield.