Crossing the midline is a term used to describe the action of crossing an imaginary line that runs down the center of the body, dividing it into left and right halves. It is an important developmental milestone that is thought to be related to the integration of information between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
There is some evidence to suggest that crossing the midline exercises may have a positive effect on academic skills such as reading and math. These exercises are believed to improve the connections between the left and right sides of the brain, which may help to improve the brain's ability to process and integrate information. This, in turn, may lead to improvements in reading and math skills.
Examples of crossing the midline exercises include activities such as reaching across the body to touch the opposite shoulder, tracing a letter or shape with the fingers while crossing the midline, and performing actions such as jumping jacks or skipping while crossing the midline. These exercises can be done at home, in a classroom, or in a therapy setting.
What are some examples of crossing the midline exercises I can use for Reading?
Trace letters or words with your fingers
Have the child trace letters or words with their fingers with Sky Writing while crossing the midline. This can help them to develop their fine motor skills and improve their ability to process written information.
Play "Simon Says"
Play the classic game of "Simon Says" with a focus on midline crossing movements, such as "Simon says touch your left ear with your right hand."
Practice yoga poses
Have the child try out yoga poses that involve crossing the midline, such as the triangle pose or the warrior II pose.
Kids Freeze Dance
Movement can be tied to such skills as sounding out CVC words, and this ultimately helps with not only the deep understanding of how to blend words but also engagement.
Remember that it's important to start with activities that are appropriate for the child's age and ability level, and to make the exercises fun and engaging.
What are some examples of crossing the midline exercises I can use for Math?
Practice counting
Have the child count objects while crossing the midline, such as counting the fingers on each hand.
Play with manipulatives
Use manipulatives such as blocks, counting bears, or pattern blocks to encourage midline crossing movements. For example, have the child build a tower by taking a block from one side of their body and placing it on the other side.
Play "Simon Says"
Play the game "Simon Says" with a focus on math concepts and midline crossing movements. For example, "Simon says touch your toes and then count to 10" or "Simon says touch your left ear and then do 3 jumping jacks."
Play math games
Play math-based games that involve crossing the midline, such as Dot-to-Dot or Connect the Dots.
Practice writing numbers
Have the child practice writing numbers while crossing the midline. For example, they can start at the top of the page and write the numbers 1-10, crossing the midline as they go.
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Again, the use of this streaming service can bring concepts like telling time, doing mental math, rounding and place value to life by getting your kids up and moving. The act of movement will keep them engaged AND learning.
Remember to start with activities that are appropriate for the child's age and ability level, and to make the exercises fun and engaging.
What is the best way to engage your students?
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