Hang-Hop-Hug: Effects of a Brief Sensorimotor Activity in the Classroom on Emotional State and Balance Among 6-8 Year Olds
Event Type
Research Presentation
Location
Dana Science Building, 2nd floor
Start Date
24-4-2026 1:00 PM
End Date
24-4-2026 2:30 PM
Description
The current study examines the impact of a brief body movement exercise on children's emotional state, focus, and motor balance. Previous research demonstrates that physical activity, even in short bursts, can improve selective attention and positively influence emotional regulation (Ma et al., 2014; Tse, 2020). Our study focuses on a kinetic exercise called Hang-Hop-Hug which lasts about four minutes and can be performed in the classroom without equipment. First and second grade students (N = 18) were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (N = 9) or the control group (N = 9). Both groups completed a balance pre-test, an emotional state scale before and after every session, and a focus assessment on Fridays. The intervention group performed Hang-Hop-Hug on Monday, Wednesday, Friday for 3 weeks. We compared this intervention with a placebo seated activity (drawing) and examined the two groups on variables of motor balance, mood, and focus after the 3-week period. We hope to analyze preliminary data prior to the SPARC Poster Session.
Hang-Hop-Hug: Effects of a Brief Sensorimotor Activity in the Classroom on Emotional State and Balance Among 6-8 Year Olds
Dana Science Building, 2nd floor
The current study examines the impact of a brief body movement exercise on children's emotional state, focus, and motor balance. Previous research demonstrates that physical activity, even in short bursts, can improve selective attention and positively influence emotional regulation (Ma et al., 2014; Tse, 2020). Our study focuses on a kinetic exercise called Hang-Hop-Hug which lasts about four minutes and can be performed in the classroom without equipment. First and second grade students (N = 18) were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (N = 9) or the control group (N = 9). Both groups completed a balance pre-test, an emotional state scale before and after every session, and a focus assessment on Fridays. The intervention group performed Hang-Hop-Hug on Monday, Wednesday, Friday for 3 weeks. We compared this intervention with a placebo seated activity (drawing) and examined the two groups on variables of motor balance, mood, and focus after the 3-week period. We hope to analyze preliminary data prior to the SPARC Poster Session.
Comments
Under the direction of Dr. Caroline Mann.