The initiative began as a way to do more for students who may not have adequate time for movement, whether in or out of school. Having some experience pairing movement and learning while at another Cobb County school, Still Elementary, PE instructors Leanne Flanagan and Patrick Stevens, began looking for ways to implement Action Based Learning as a methodology in the classroom after joining the staff at Compton Elementary. The two were given enthusiastic approval by proponent principal Lair.

Research led Flanagan to delve into the concept of Movement and Learning and the scientific brain-based research that says the brain is optimized for grasping concepts when the body moves, even in low intensity ways that can be carried out inside a classroom! Both Flanagan and Stevens were keenly aware that some students lack the pre-kindergarten skills, like cross lateralization, which research tells us is critical in order to advance in reading and math once moving to the next grade level. These critical developmental milestones may unfortunately go unnoticed, and the lab is a way to strengthen and develop these areas.

 The purpose of the ABL Lab is quite simple- to prepare the brain for learning! Each station allows the child to engage in purposeful movement according to the foundation being worked on (Cross Lateralization, Body in Space, Balance, Visual Development, Rhythm, Tactile Learning, Motor Skills, Hand/Eye/Foot Coordination, Physical Fitness, Cardiovascular Health, Problem Solving, Self Management/Mindfulness).

Strengthening these foundations directly correlates with the student's cognitive skills, such as reading and writing. Research shows as the brain and body begin to work together to process motor sequences and patterns such as rolling over, crawling, walking and jumping, the brain creates the pathways used for processing sequences in reading and math.

There are 3 basic human motor movements- rolling, crawling/walking, and jumping. These directly correspond with the way that information travels in the brain; side to side across the corpus callosum, back to front across the motor cortex, and up & down from the bottom to the top of the brain. The brain uses its motor patterns as the framework for other learning. Proper development and remediation of these systems are critical to a child’s ability to learn!

Determined to provide an academic advantage as well as provide a much needed break from sitting all day, Leanne and Patrick took some simple movement activities and ABL strategies and brought them to Mrs. Lair - all agreed this was exactly what they wanted for their students. A couple weeks after implementing a few basic techniques like "brain breaks," it was remarkable how the students were more attentive and even better behaved because of the movement activities. To more fully integrate purposeful movement throughout the school, Flanagan reached out to Action Based Learning. A grant helped fund their K-2nd Grade ABL Lab, which included equipment and instructional materials, specifically designed to focus on the brain/body connection, through intentional movement! The Lab allows students to work on all functions and strengthen these critical areas of development such as vestibular, balance, and manipulative skills.