ABL Labs are grounded in the science behind the brain-body connection.

Movement supports brain growth, prepares students for learning, and helps close developmental gaps. Each lab is built on 12 foundational skills and their developmental progressions; the lab helps children reach their full learning potential.

ABL Labs focus on:

Active Play

Structured, movement-based activities that build coordination, cross-lateral development, and engagement.

Sensory & Tactile

Supports self-regulation and closes sensory-related learning gaps.

Rehab / OT / PT

Supports occupational and physical therapy goals through activities that improve balance, coordination, strength, and motor planning.

Youth Fitness

Promotes cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance through age-appropriate movement.

Learning Readiness

Targets foundational skills required for academic success, including attention, memory, and processing.

Child Development

Connects physical movement with cognitive and behavioral growth.

Each lab package can be customized based on age, grade level, and specific needs to serve the children at your facility. 

However, all labs generally consist of the following equipment:​

• Strength / Cardio Fitness Equipment With  Flip Charts for Academic Content
• Balance, Obstacle, & Tactile Equipment
• Active Academic Mats
• Active Learning Wall Mounts
• Academic Support Materials

Each Lab comes with a toolkit to prepare trainers and students for their time spent in the lab! 

Both! Many schools opt for the entire lab package which includes staff training, lab manuals, support materials, activity guides, as well as all of the stations necessary to focus on the 12 Foundations of Learning Readiness. 

However, not all schools will have the resources to implement a complete lab package immediately. Action Based Learning Labs can be customized to fit the specific needs of the school. 

The first (and highly recommended) step is to attend an Action Based Learning training. Trainings provide an in-depth understanding of ABL, the brain research behind the 12 Foundations of Learning Readiness, and allow educators to leave with a vision of what ABL looks like in the school setting!

Labs do not have to be implemented in a designated room. For limited space, schools use the gym, cafeteria, the stage, classroom trailors, or a portable lab cart that can be shared between pods.

Although we recommend all teachers be trained in utilizing the lab, you will need to nominate at least 1 champion educator to become certified as the lab facilitator. 

This could be a classroom teacher, PE teacher, OT/PT, or anyone passionate about the ABL mission. As the lab gains momentum and success, many districts move facilitators full-time.

The more, the better! Ideally, 3-5 times a week for maximum benefits. Typically, labs are scheduled in 20- 30-sessions. 

Ages 3 to 18 years old. Custom activities and equipment per grade level!

No!

The lab is designed to anchor learning and reinforce academic content already being taught in the classroom.

ABL labs are shared spaces that are available to all students throughout the year, and for teachers to sign their class up for throughout the week for ~30 min sessions.

Ask us about taking your first course for FREE on ABL Academy!

We recommend completing ABL-101 Introduction to Action Based Learning on www.ablacademy.com.

You can also visit our Resource Center for data and research articles to read!