Teacher Training: Facilitating Effective Movement Breaks

In today's ever-changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall development of students. Test scores and academic rigor are important, but a growing body of research highlights a crucial factor that is often left unnoticed: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the commonplace. In this article we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science of their advantages, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in Schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or physical activity breaks, are short periods during school hours when students are encouraged engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more formal games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities which require moving. The movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education that adhere to a curriculum, are frequent and short interruptions in the class's sedentary time. They aid in refocusing students in their minds and help them reenergize.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is their positive impact on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and teens should engage in at 60 minutes of exercise movement each day. Yet, many students aren't meeting this standard because of the long hours they spend sitting in classrooms.

Breaks in school for movement provide numerous health benefits:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system, and also encourages the development of lifelong healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the belief that more time on academics leads to better results Research has shown that incorporating breaks in movement can improve academic performance. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen that are essential for cognitive functioning.

Its primary academic benefits include:

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

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a matter that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for youngsters of school age. Movement breaks play a significant part in promoting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during school day can provide an outlet for the accumulated energy, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive classroom environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, enhancing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Since movement breaks are easily adaptable they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different ages, physical abilities, and learning methods. From simple chair stretches to interactive group activities movement breaks ensure each student has the opportunity to excel.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your day

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as stretching, jumping, or quick games.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, storytelling, or themes to keep your students interested.
• Involve students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally essential during online learning. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or give students movement challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the class?

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. The breaks during movement are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How can we create the time to move during an already packed schedule?"

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule in order to switch between different topics or following intensive concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

"What is the best course to take if space isn't enough?"

Certain activities can be done sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Chair yoga, seated stretches, or even simple arm and hand movements work well in small classrooms.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on School Culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about individual benefits; it's about building an environment that promotes wellbeing, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Students who are healthier and have less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are enhanced
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness initiatives, such as social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and anti-bullying programs.

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools start introducing movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools have a 30-minute break for movement. But, the duration of breaks is adjustable depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. The movement breaks aren't a substitute for structured exercise. They are intended to enhance it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities require no equipment or only basic items such as scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating breaks to move throughout the school day can have a wide range of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health to supporting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior, the research is clear: movement matters. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or a an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Because when students move they learn, improve and prosper.