Policy Advocacy for Movement Breaks at the State Level

The holistic development of the student is becoming more important in the current rapidly evolving educational landscape. The quality of their education and the scores they score are important however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. As sedentary classroom routines and increasing screen time becomes the standard, the demand for a purposeful, organized physical activity throughout the school day has never been greater. In this guide we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be an integral part of any school's daily routine, uncover the science behind 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 in the school day when students are encouraged engage in physical activities. They can be anything from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more organized exercises, games or even mindfulness-based activities which require movement. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to help students reenergize and refresh their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in the same
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive effects on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens engage in 60 minutes of exercise. Yet, many students aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.

Movement Breaks in Schools provide a number of health benefits

• Increase cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to the belief that spending more time studying can lead to better grades studies show that integrating movement breaks can actually enhance the academic level. Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This delivers nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Increased focus and attention
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Increased focus on task

The results of studies have shown that students who receive movement breaks return to tasks with greater concentration and show better achievement scores than those who don't get such breaks.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is an increasing concern with anxiety, stress, and depression being a major issue for school-aged children. Movement breaks play a significant part in promoting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released and make you feel good
• Opportunity for social interaction and teamwork

The physical exercise you engage in throughout the day can help to release pent up energy and stress. This will create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing challenges, or other special needs. Students with these conditions can benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, improving their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because they are easily adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different age groups, physical abilities, and learning style. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities, breaks in the form of movement ensure every student has the opportunity to excel.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

Teachers can profit from this resource

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in long instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it: Make use of stories, music or themes to engage students.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Monitor the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine methods.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Movement breaks are equally crucial. Teachers can conduct live activity sessions on video calls or provide movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Studies show that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Movement breaks are an investment into learning and not a distraction.

How do we make time to move when our schedule is so packed?

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes--and can be built into transitions between subjects or after periods of intense focus. Even a short activity can provide noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which that we have available is not enough?

Certain activities can be done standing next to desks or in a tiny space. Stretching in a chair, sitting, or even simple hand and arm movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Broader Impact: The Broader Impact:

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about fostering an environment that promotes well-being, health, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that prioritize movement tend to experience:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness programs, such as nutrition education, anti-bullying, social-emotional training, and social-emotional-learning could be linked to breaks for movement.

Tips to Get Started

1. Begin slow: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant. Include movement in your routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Get feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for everyone?

Yes! The timing of breaks for movement can be customized to preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities require no equipment or only simple objects like balls, scarves, or music.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple approach that has proven advantages. From improving academic performance to improving physical health to supporting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom The research proves that movement is important. No matter if you're a teacher administrator or parent, or even a policymaker, advocating for and implementing movement breaks is a way to invest in the success of the next generation.

Making movement a vital element of school life for all students. Students learn, develop and thrive by moving.