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The overall development of the child is increasingly crucial in the rapidly changing educational environment. Academic rigor and test scores are important however, a growing amount of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. As sedentary classroom routines and more screen time are becoming the standard, the demand for purposeful, structured physical activities during the school day has never been greater. In this article we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule and uncover the science of the benefits of these breaks, and present actionable strategies for educators and administrators.
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 with physical activity. These breaks can include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness exercises. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed program, the movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to re-energize students and refresh their minds.
The positive impact of exercise breaks for the health of a person is among the strongest reasons for incorporating them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. A majority of students fail to comply with this requirement because they are occupied for too many hours in the classroom.
School breaks during movement provide numerous health benefits:
Regular exercise also improves your immune system, and promotes healthy habits for life.
Contrary to the common belief that a longer time at school will result in higher results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during class can improve academic performance . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, which delivers oxygen and nutrients that are essential for cognitive functioning.
Key academic benefits include:
Research has shown that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater concentration and show greater achievement scores when compared with students who do not have such breaks.
The mental health of children is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety and depression affecting many school-age children. The movement breaks play an important role in supporting emotional regulation and mental well-being.
Emotional Benefits include:
Physical activity during the day can assist to let go of any tension, frustration or worry. This creates positive atmosphere in the classroom.
Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial to students suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and problems with sensory processing or any other needs. Physical activity can help students regulate their energy levels, improve executive function, and better take on academic tasks.
Since movement breaks can be easily adapted and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the needs of various age groups and physical abilities as well as learning style. The types of breaks offered vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They make sure that every student can thrive.
Movement breaks are just as important in virtual learning. Teachers can either conduct video-based activities or give students movement tasks to complete at their homes.
Research has shown that students who regularly move are more focused and productive in class. Breaks for movement are an investment into learning and not a distraction.
Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or during times of intense focus. Even short activities have obvious advantages.
Some exercises can be completed at desks, or in a tiny space. In smaller classrooms, seated yoga, stretches in a chair, or just simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.
It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks, but also about establishing a culture in schools that promotes well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:
Other wellness initiatives such as nutrition education, anti-bullying and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.
Experts suggest schools take a 30-minute break for movement. But, the duration of breaks can be altered depending on the school's requirements.
No. Breaks for movement are a complement to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.
Yes! Yes!
Not at all. Certain of the most efficient moves require minimal or no equipment, including scarves or music, or even balls.
Incorporating breaks to move into the daily school routine can have a wide range of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health to supporting mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear that movement is important. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you are an administrator or teacher or parent, or even a policymaker.
Making movement a vital element of school life for every student. Students learn, develop and flourish when they move.
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Latest Posts
Credentialing for Preschool Support Staff and Assistants
Evaluating Movement Break Programs: What Works
District Policies that Support Movement Breaks