Lessons Learned: Implementing a Movement Break Program

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape the spotlight is shifting to the overall growth of students. While academic test scores and rigor are still important, increasing body of research has highlighted an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time is becoming the standard. This guide will discuss the reason why break time is an important part of every school day, the benefits they offer and give practical suggestions for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks in the Schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or physical activity breaks are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged to participate with physical activity. They can be a time for dancing, stretching, or other structured exercises or games, or mindfulness activities. Movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education, which follow a curriculum, are frequent brief interruptions to sedentary class time. They aid in refocusing students to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main motives to include movement breaks is their positive impact on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens take part in 60 minutes of daily physical activity. A lot of students don't comply with this requirement because they spend long hours in school.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Help with weight loss
• Combating childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and helps in the development of lifelong healthy routines.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the notion that spending more time studying leads to better results, research shows that integrating breaks for movement can enhance the academic level. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which delivers oxygen and nutrients that are essential to cognitive function.

The most important benefits for academics include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• Increased focus on task

According to studies that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more concentrated and have higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of students is an increasing concern with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged children. The movement breaks play an important role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release pent up energy anger, stress or anxiety. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or problems with sensory processing or any other needs. These students will benefit from exercise by regulating their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic assignments.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Because movement breaks are easily adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the requirements of various age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. The types of breaks offered range from simple chair stretches through interactive group exercises. They guarantee that each child can thrive.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are easy to do and require little equipment or preparation.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories, or other themes that keep your students interested.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Monitor the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine practices.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activity sessions via video calls or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

On the contrary, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How do we make enough time to move in the midst of a busy schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or after times that require intense concentration. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

What happens if the space in which we have is limited?

Many activities that require only a little space or are done by standing in front of desks. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or even simple hand and arm movements can be effective.

The impact of movement breaks on the school culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about creating a culture in schools that is centered around health, wellbeing and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• More academically successful

Other wellness programs, such as bullying prevention, nutrition education social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning can be aligned with the breaks in your exercise.

Tips to Get Started

1. Begin slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep your students entertained.
4. Get feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the recommended frequency for schools to introduce movement breaks?

Experts suggest that schools take a 30-minute break for movement. But, the duration of breaks is adjustable in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Breaks in movement aren't as a substitute for structured physical education. They are intended to complement it.

Is movement appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just simple items like balls, scarves, or even music.

Incorporating breaks to move into the daily school routine could provide a broad array of advantages. Research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. You can invest in the future of your students, whether you're a teacher or administrator as well as a parent or politician.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of each student's school experience. Because when students move they learn, develop, and thrive.