Lessons Learned: Implementing a Movement Break Program

The overall development of the student is increasingly crucial in the current rapidly evolving education system. Test scores and academic rigor remain important however, a growing amount of research highlights a crucial factor that is often left unnoticed: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more important. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time is becoming the commonplace. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a cornerstone of any school's daily routine and uncover the science that explains the benefits of these breaks, and present practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in 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 engage in physical activities. They can be a time for dancing, stretching, structured games or exercises, or mindfulness activities. In contrast to physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in the same
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children take part in 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Yet, many students do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent in class.

Movement breaks in schools can provide a variety of health benefits:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Help support healthy weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system, and promotes healthy habits for life.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to the notion that more time on academics leads to better results, research shows that integrating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Exercise increases circulation of blood to your brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients essential for brain function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• An increase in on-task behavior

According to research the students who have movement breaks are more concentrated and score higher over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety, and depression plaguing many school-age children. The movement breaks play an important part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

Exercise during the school hours provides an opportunity to release any excess anger, frustration, or worry, helping to create a comfortable and positive environment in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from a break in their movement. These students benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic activities.

Create inclusive classrooms

Since movement breaks can be easily adapted, they can be tailored to fit the needs of different ages and physical abilities as well as learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to group-based activities that are interactive, breaks in the form of movement guarantee each student has the opportunity to thrive.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping, or quick games.
• Have fun with it! Make use of stories, music or themes to get students involved.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Develop policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead activity breaks in a confident manner.
• Track progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can facilitate live activities on video calls or provide movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

On the contrary research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not a distraction.

"How can we create time for movement in a packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or during times that require intense concentration. Even short activities have obvious benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom is limited?"

Certain activities can be done standing next to desks or in a small space. Chair yoga, seated stretches, or even simple hand and arm movements work well in small classrooms.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about individual benefits; it's about building a school culture that values well-being, health and lifelong learning. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Students with healthier health and less absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are enhanced
• More teacher satisfaction and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

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

Tips for Getting Started

1. Begin slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be adjusted to suit each school's unique needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. The movement breaks aren't as a substitute for structured physical education. They are meant to complement it.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient exercises require little or no equipment, including scarves, music, or balls.

Integrating breaks for exercise into the daily school routine can provide a vast range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom It's clear from the research: movement matters. No matter if you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.

Making movement a vital part of the school experience for all students. Learners develop and prosper by moving.