How Movement Supports Behaviour

At Kids Heart Pilates, we see behaviour not as something to “fix” but as something to understand. Behaviour is an outcome of what is happening for a child. It is their way of communicating with us, often before they have the words or strategies to express their needs.

When a child shows big emotions, acts out, is over excited or withdraws, it can be a clue that something deeper is going on.

What’s Behind Behaviour?

Here are some of the most common underlying causes:

• Pain or discomfort: Postural discomfort (how they are sitting), muscle aches, or general pain.

• Muscle weakness or low endurance: If a child’s body tires easily, they may avoid certain activities, resist movement, or act out when they reach their physical limit. This isn’t defiance, it’s their body signalling fatigue.

• Anxiety or worry: Worries often show up in behaviour before children can explain them.

• Changes in routine: New teachers, holidays, or daily changes can feel unsettling.

• Feeling unsafe: Loud environments or unfamiliar people may trigger protective behaviours.

• Regulation difficulties: Some children need help calming down or “resetting.”

• Sensory overload or under-stimulation: Too much input via noise, lights, movement or not enough input can trigger responses to give us clues.

• Executive function challenges: Impulse control, memory, and flexible thinking are still developing.

• Breathing pathologies or illness: Asthma, respiratory challenges, or sickness can affect behaviour.

• Sleep, nutrition, and hydration: Tiredness, hunger, or thirst often drive behaviours.

• Nutrient deficiencies: Low iron or other deficiencies may affect energy and focus.

💡The key message: Behaviour is communication. By looking for the clues behind the behaviour, we can better understand what the child needs.

How Movement Supports Behaviour

Research shows that Pilates and structured movement can help children:

• Build awareness of body and breath for better self-control (D’Cruz et al., 2024).

• Reduce stress and anxiety through controlled breathing and movement (Li et al., 2023; Do et al., 2021).

• Improve focus and reduce impulsivity (Reigal et al., 2020).

• Learn emotional regulation through mindful movement (Vasilopoulos et al., 2021).

• Develop teamwork and social skills (Crumbley et al., 2019).

• Gain confidence and a positive self-image through skill mastery (Ekeland et al., 2004).

Strategies to Use at Home or in the Classroom

1. High-intensity movement breaks: Running, jumping, or dancing releases “happy hormones.”

2. Routine and predictability: Use schedules, cues, and visual supports.

3. Choice and ownership: Let children decide between two activities or choose equipment.

4. Challenges: Give “just right” challenges to build resilience and confidence.

5. Connection and acceptance: Show children you see them, value them, and accept where they’re at.

6. Self-directed goals: Help children set small, meaningful goals.

7. Sensory breaks: Provide quiet corners, deep pressure, or movement activities.

8. Celebrate effort: Acknowledge small wins, not just big achievements.

9. Mindful movement and breathing: Short breathing or stretching breaks help regulation.

A Holistic Perspective

When we shift from asking “How do I stop this behaviour?” to “What is this behaviour telling me?”, we build deeper understanding and compassion. By combining movement, structure, and connection, we give children the tools to thrive at school and at home. What to give it a go? Try our Happy Hippos online program for FREE.