Movement Breaks: Feedback from Students

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the holistic development of students. The quality of their education and the scores they score remain important however, a growing amount of research highlights a crucial aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. As sedentary classroom routines and increased screen time become the norm, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activity throughout the school day is never greater. This guide will explain the reason why break time is an important part of every school day, what advantages they bring and give practical suggestions for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also known as breaks for the brain break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short periods within the school day during which students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. The breaks may range from short periods of dancing or stretching to more structured games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require movements. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined program, the movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks for the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate these breaks into your daily routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents should participate in at 60 minutes of exercise activities each day. Yet, many students do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent in the classroom.

Movement Breaks in Schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system, and helps you maintain healthy habits for life.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to the common belief that a longer time at school results in better scores, research has proven that taking a break during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen which are vital for cognitive functioning.

The most important benefits for academics include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• Increased on-task behavior

According to studies, students who take movement breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with anxiety, stress, and depression being a major issue for school-aged children. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and encouraging mental health is widely known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released and create a positive feeling
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the day can assist to let go of any tension anger, stress or anxiety. This can create an environment that is positive for students.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other special needs can benefit from movement breaks. They benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because movement breaks are easily adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the needs of various age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. From simple chair stretches to group-based activities that are interactive, break breaks are designed to make sure that each student has the opportunity to excel.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

For Teachers

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories or other themes that keep students engaged.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Establish policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Breaks for movement are equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or provide students with movement-related tasks to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

On the contrary, research shows that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more productive during lessons. Movement breaks can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How can we fit in the time to move if our schedule is so packed?

Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into transitions between subjects or following times that require intense concentration. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

What if the classroom space we have isn't enough?

Some exercises can be completed standing next to desks or in a small space. Seated stretches, chair yoga or even basic hand and arm movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Broader Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not only about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about creating a culture in schools that is centered around well-being, health, and lifelong education. Schools that prioritize movement tend to experience:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are boosted
• Higher satisfaction of teachers and lower rates of burnout
• Higher academic performance

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness activities including social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.

Start with these Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes, however, the time interval can be altered to meet each school's unique needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Movement breaks are not as a substitute for regular exercise. They are meant to complement it.

Is movement appropriate for all children?

Yes! Breaks for movement can be adapted for elementary school children, preschoolers, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most effective exercises require no or little equipment, such as scarves or music, or even balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple method that is based on research and has a wide range of advantages. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear that movement is crucial. It is possible to make a difference in the lives of your students, whether you are an administrator or teacher, a parent or a policymaker.

Making movement a vital element of school life for all students. Learners develop and flourish when they move.