Free Resources for School Movement Programs

In today's ever-changing education system the spotlight is focused on the holistic student's development. Academic rigor and test scores are important however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for purposeful, structured physical activity during the school day is never more urgent. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be an integral part of any school's daily routine as well as the scientific basis that explains their benefits, and provide practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Movement Breaks Also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or Physical Activity breaks are brief periods of time during school hours when students are encouraged to participate with physical activity. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more organized exercises, games or even mindfulness-based activities that involve movement. The movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow the same curriculum, are frequently, short interruptions of sedentary class time. They help refocus students in their minds and help them reenergize.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running 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

The positive effects of daily movement breaks for the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate these breaks into your daily routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents engage in 60 minutes of regular exercise. Many students do not adhere to this advice because they are occupied for so many hours in class.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Enhance fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
• Help with weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and helps in the creation of long-term healthy routines.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to the widely held belief that a longer time at school results in better grades, research has shown that taking movement breaks during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the blood flow to your brain. This provides nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• Increased the amount of time spent on task.

Studies have found that students who are given breaks for movement return to their work more focused and have better achievement scores than students who do not have such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of students is becoming a major concern with anxiety, stress, and depression plaguing many school-age children. The role of exercise in managing emotions and improving mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

The physical exercise you engage in throughout the day can help to let go of any tension, frustration or worry. This creates a positive classroom atmosphere.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sensory processing challenges, or other special needs. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise by regulating their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to accommodate the needs of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. Movement breaks can be anything from simple chair stretching up to interactive group exercises. They guarantee that each child can succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during long instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories, or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families on the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Movement breaks are just as crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can conduct live sessions of activity on video calls or assign movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more productive and focused in classes. Breaks for movement are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How do we make the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

You can include short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule for transitions between topics or after intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide tangible advantages.

What happens if the space in which we have isn't enough?

Some activities can be performed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Stretching in a chair, sitting, or even simple hand and arm exercises are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about creating the school's culture of wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness initiatives such as nutrition education, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning can be aligned with breaks for movement.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Be consistent. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Ask for feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Experts suggest that schools take a 30-minute break to move around. However, the duration of breaks can be adjusted depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! Movement breaks can be tailored for elementary school children, preschoolers middle, high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective moves require little or no equipment, such as scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating breaks for movement throughout the school day could provide a broad range of benefits. The research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or even a an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.

Let's make it a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Because when students move they learn, develop, and thrive.