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In today's ever-changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall growth of students. Test scores and academic rigor remain important, but a growing body of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are now the standard. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule and uncover the science of their advantages, and offer concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.
Movement Breaks Also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or physical activity breaks are brief periods of time during the school day where students are encouraged engage in physical activities. They can be a time for stretching, dancing, more structured exercises or games, or mindfulness activities. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are brief, regular interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and help them refocus their minds.
The positive effect of regular physical activity breaks on health is one of the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents take part in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. Many students do not comply with this requirement due to the fact that they spend long hours in school.
Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health benefits:
Regular movement also boosts the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.
Contrary to the widely held belief that more time spent in school results in better scores, research has proven that taking movement breaks in class can boost the academic level of students . Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This helps deliver nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive functioning.
The main benefits for academics include:
The results of studies have shown that students who get breaks for movement return to their work more focused and have greater achievement scores when compared with students who do not have such breaks.
The mental wellbeing of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety, and depression affecting many school-age children. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.
Emotional Benefits include:
Physical activity during school day provides an opportunity to release any excess energy, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more comfortable and positive environment in the classroom.
Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic tasks.
Because they can be easily adapted they can be tailored to fit the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning style. The types of breaks offered range from simple chair stretches up to interactive group exercises. They guarantee that each child can succeed.
Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related tasks they can complete at their homes.
Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more productive and focused in class. The movement breaks are an investment into learning and not an interruption.
Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes--and can be built into transitions between subjects or after times that require intense concentration. Even short activities have obvious advantages.
Many movement activities require little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In smaller classrooms, seated yoga, stretches in a chair, or simple arm and hand movements can be effective.
It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that values wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Movement-focused schools tend to:
Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness activities, such as social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and anti-bullying programs.
Experts suggest that schools have a 30-minute break to walk around. However, the duration of breaks can be altered according to each school's needs.
No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.
Yes! Yes!
Not at all. Many effective movement activities need no equipment, or just simple objects like balls, scarves or music.
Incorporating breaks to move throughout the school day could provide a broad variety of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health, to promoting mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear: movement matters. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or a policymaker, advocating for and implementing movement breaks can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.
Make movement an essential aspect of the school day for every student. Learners develop and flourish by moving.
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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