In this episode of the Innovative Schools Podcast, hosts Jordan and Liz sit down with Jessica Sinarski, an expert in education and counseling, to discuss how movement in the classroom can minimize disruptive behavior and enhance learning. Jessica introduces the concept of proprioception—a hidden sense that affects body awareness and regulation—and explains how teachers can incorporate movement strategies to support students, particularly those with sensory processing challenges or trauma histories.

Jessica shares practical ways educators can use movement to create a more focused and engaged classroom environment. From jumping challenges to the "Bubblegum Club," she provides simple yet effective strategies that can help students self-regulate and optimize their learning experience.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How movement impacts classroom behavior and student learning.
• The importance of proprioception and why it's a game changer in education.
• Common signs that students may need more proprioceptive input.
• Practical movement strategies teachers can easily integrate into their classrooms.
• The role of proprioception in self-regulation and emotional well-being.

Key Quotes:

• “Great teachers can create a space for students to regulate themselves and engage in learning.”
• “It’s not us against our students. We are on the same team, working to light up the learning brain.”
• “When kids’ needs are met, they are more able to learn. And when teachers’ needs are met, they are more able to teach.”

Resources & Links:

• Download Jessica’s Free Guide to Proprioception: www.BraveBrains.com/PROPE
• Learn more about Brave Brains, Jessica’s organization: www.jessicasinarski.com/bravebrains
• Check out Jessica’s book Light Up the Learning Brain: www.jessicasinarski.com/light
• Register for the Innovative Schools Summit in Orlando (March 20-23, 2025): www.innovativeschoolssummit.com/Orlando

Stay Connected:

• Follow Innovative Schools on www.instagram.com/innovativeschoolspodcast/