Setting Up a Movement Break Committee

In today's rapidly evolving education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall growth of students. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research reveals an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more important. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the standard. In this article we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule and uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in the 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 to engage in physical activities. They can be a time for stretching, dancing, more organized games, exercises or mindfulness activities. Unlike 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 refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in the same
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at minimum 60 minutes of physical movement each day. Yet, many students aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Offer Several Health Benefits

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

Regular exercise 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 more time spent in school leads to better scores, research has proven that taking movement breaks in class can boost academic performance . Exercise increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are essential for cognitive functioning.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

According to studies the students who have movement breaks are more focused and score higher than students who don't.

3. Well-being of the Mind and Emotions

The mental health of students is an increasing concern with anxiety, stress, and depression plaguing many school-age youngsters. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

Physical activity during the school day provides a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration, or worry, helping to create a positive classroom environment.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD or sensory processing problems or any other specific needs may benefit from movement breaks. They will benefit from exercise by regulating their energy levels, improving their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted they can be tailored to meet the needs of various age groups, physical abilities, and learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities, breaks in the form of movement ensure each student gets the chance to excel.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require little equipment or preparation.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories or themes to keep students engaged.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

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 teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct activity breaks confidently.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

However studies show that students who move regularly are more focused, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not distracting.

"How do we make the time to move during the midst of a busy schedule?"

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between topics or after intensive concentration. Even short activities can bring significant advantages.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space, or can be performed standing beside desks. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even simple arm and hand movements work well in small classrooms.

The Impact of The Broader Impact:

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

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• More academically successful

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

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Keep it regular. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Get feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce movement breaks?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are movements suitable for all ages of children?

Yes! Movement breaks can be tailored to 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, like scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple approach that has proven advantages. The research shows that movement is important for a myriad of reasons which include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behavior. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you are a teacher or administrator, a parent or a policymaker.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Why? Because when kids move, they learn, grow, and thrive.