Children's hands and feet in action: why does movement matter?

          Movement is one of the most authentic and meaningful expressions of childhood. Children learn about the world not only with their eyes and ears but, above all, with hands and feet in constant activity. The importance of child movement goes far beyond mere physical activity: it is a fundamental element for cognitive, emotional, and social development. Studies from renowned universities such as Harvard and Stanford confirm that motor activities stimulate neuronal connections that enhance learning and promote emotional balance.

Developing motor skills in childhood is not just about learning to walk or run. It involves building a repertoire of movements that allow children to explore the environment with autonomy and creativity. Fine motor coordination, for instance, improved through activities such as cutting, drawing, or modeling clay, is essential for future skills like writing. Gross motor coordination, involving broad movements such as running, jumping, and dancing, strengthens muscles and contributes to body balance.

The methodologies of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, such as TBMB (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater), MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater), and ThM (Theater Movement), emphasize the importance of movement integrated with playful and artistic activities. In the Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater, for example, children are encouraged to manipulate objects precisely, developing fine motor coordination while exploring creative narratives. In MAT, movement is linked to critical thinking and teamwork, stimulating not only physical skills but also social and cognitive abilities. ThM uses expressive movements as a means of self-awareness and emotional expression, strengthening the connection between body and mind.

In everyday practice, it is essential to provide children with moments of motor exploration. This can be done in both large spaces, such as parks and playgrounds, and smaller environments, with guided activities that challenge their physical abilities and encourage overcoming limits. Playing ball, jumping rope, dancing, or even creating simple motor circuits at home are ways to involve hands and feet in meaningful and enjoyable actions.

The scientist and educator Maria Montessori already advocated that movement is intrinsically linked to thinking, stating that active hands promote creative minds. In this context, it is crucial for educators and parents to understand that limiting children’s movements can negatively impact intellectual development. Free play, with encouragement to use the body in an integral way, is a practice that strengthens both self-esteem and the ability to solve problems independently.

Another relevant point is the impact of movement on socio-emotional development. Children who have the opportunity to explore the environment with their bodies develop greater self-confidence and social skills. For example, by participating in group activities that require cooperation and coordination, such as collective games and theater performances, they learn to deal with challenges in a collaborative and respectful manner.

A study conducted by the University of Cambridge found that children who regularly engage in physical activities perform better academically, especially in subjects that require logical reasoning and concentration. This happens because movement stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which increase focus and promote emotional well-being.

Educational initiatives that integrate movement and learning have shown surprising results. An example of this is the "Move to Learn" program, adopted in several Finnish schools, where motor activities are interspersed with moments of cognitive concentration, increasing engagement and content retention.

Encouraging hands and feet in action is not just about promoting physical health but also about nurturing curious minds eager to explore. By transforming movement into an expressive language, children feel more secure and capable of interacting with the world around them. Incorporating practices such as the methodologies created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos is an innovative and efficient way to promote integral and balanced development.

Therefore, keeping children in motion is not a mere detail but a pedagogical and affective necessity. By valuing movement as an essential part of human formation, we create space for new generations to grow with more health, autonomy, and creativity. May hands and feet always be in action, connecting bodies and minds in a continuous dance of discoveries.

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