Encouraging Teacher Participation in Movement

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape the spotlight is turning to the holistic development of students. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain important, a growing body research highlights an element that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more important. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are becoming the commonplace. This guide will discuss the reason why break time is an essential part of any school day, what benefits they provide, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks at schools?

Movement breaks--also known as brain breaks break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short breaks during the school day during which students are required to participate in physical activities. They can be anything from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that require movement. Movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education that adhere to a curriculum, are frequent and short interruptions in sedentary class time. They aid in refocusing students in their minds and help them reenergize.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in place
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks on health is among the strongest reasons for incorporating these breaks into your daily routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children take part in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. But, many children aren't meeting this standard because of the long hours they spend in the classroom.

School-based movement breaks provide a number of health benefits

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Help support healthy weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system, and also encourages the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to popular belief that more time on academics will result in better performance Research has shown that incorporating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Exercise increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen which are vital for cognitive functioning.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that is a concern for many students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for students of school age. Movement breaks play a significant role in supporting emotional regulation and well-being.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Teamwork and social interaction

Physical activity during school hours provides an outlet for the accumulated tension, anger, or worry, helping to create a more positive classroom environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other special needs can benefit from a break in their movement. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic tasks.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Since movement breaks are easily adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the needs of different age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning styles. Breaks for movement can be anything from simple chair stretching all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They ensure that each child can thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your day

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as stretching, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Have fun with it: Make use of stories, music, or themes to entice students.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movements.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking a break to move.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead breaks with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Movement breaks are just as important. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or give students movement challenges 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 focused, less disruptive, and more productive during lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment in learning, not a distraction.

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

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between different topics or following intense concentration. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

"What if our classroom space isn't enough?"

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In small classrooms, sitting yoga, stretches in a chair, or even simple hand and arm moves can be very effective.

The Greater Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture in schools that promotes wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that emphasize the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Students with better health and less absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness programs, such as nutrition education, anti-bullying, social-emotional training, and social-emotional learning can be incorporated into movement breaks.

Start with these Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day and build from there.
2. Be constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Solicit Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for everyone?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective movements require no or little equipment, like scarves, music, or balls.

Integrating breaks to move into the daily school routine can have a wide variety of benefits. Research shows that physical activity is crucial for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behaviour. It is possible to make a difference in the lives of your students whether you're a teacher or administrator, a parent or a policymaker.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of each student's school experience--because when students move they learn, develop and prosper.