Setting Up a Movement Break Committee

The overall growth of the student is increasingly crucial in the current rapidly evolving educational landscape. Academic rigor and test scores remain crucial however, a growing amount of research reveals a key aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the norm. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind their advantages, and offer actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also called brain breaks, activity breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short breaks during the school day when students are motivated to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more structured games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require movement. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in the same
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular physical activity breaks for the health of a person is one of the main reasons to incorporate these breaks into your daily routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens take part in 60 minutes of daily exercise. But, many children fall short of this recommendation due to long hours spent in the classroom.

School breaks during movement provide numerous health advantages:

• Improve your fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy routines.

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time in school will result in better performance, research shows that integrating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen that are crucial to cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• More focused on-task behavior

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more focused and have higher scores over those who don't.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a matter that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of students of school age. The importance of movement breaks in managing emotions and improving mental health is widely known.

Emotional benefits include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins are released and give you a feeling of happiness
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can help to release the tension, frustration or worry. This can create an environment that is positive for students.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), problems with sensory processing or with other disabilities. They can benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic assignments.

Create inclusive classrooms

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the needs of various levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement make sure that that every child is able to thrive.

How do you incorporate breaks for movement into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think running, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Have fun with it! Use music, stories, or themes to entice students.
• Involve students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking movement breaks.
• Create guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can facilitate 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?"

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

How can we fit in the time to move if our schedules are jammed?

You can include short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine in order to switch between different topics or following an intense focus. Even short activities can bring tangible advantages.

"What is the best course to take if space is limited?"

Certain activities can be done at desks, or in a smaller space. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not only about the personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture in schools that values wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are boosted
• Higher satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
• Higher academic performance

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs like social-emotional education, nutrition education, or programs to combat bullying.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. However, the frequency of breaks can be altered in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it appropriate for all children?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating breaks for movement throughout the school day could provide a broad variety of benefits. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for a variety of reasons that include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. You can make a difference in the lives of your students, whether you're an administrator or teacher or parent, or even a policymaker.

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