Linking Movement Breaks to School Wellness Policies

The overall development of the student is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing education system. While academic test scores and rigor are still important, increasing body of research reveals an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the norm. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule, uncover the science that explains their benefits, and provide concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in the Schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short breaks in the school day when students are encouraged to engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from short periods of stretching or dancing to more formal exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities which require movement. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in the same
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular movement breaks on the health of a person is among the most compelling reasons for including them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents should participate in at minimum 60 minutes of physical activity daily. But, many children aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

School breaks during movement offer several health benefits:

• Enhance cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

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

2. Advantages to the brain and education

Contrary to the widely held belief that spending more time in school leads to better scores, research has proven that taking a break in class can boost the academic level of students . Exercise increases circulation of blood to your brain. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients that are vital for brain function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• A greater focus on the task

The results of studies have shown that students who get movement breaks return to tasks with greater focus and demonstrate greater achievement scores when compared with students who do not have such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression impact a lot of youngsters of school age. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is widely known.

Emotional benefits include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins release to create a positive feeling
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can help to release the tension and stress. This creates an environment that is positive for students.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, improving their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to accommodate the needs of different levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. The types of breaks offered be anything from simple chair stretching all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They guarantee that every student can succeed.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think stretching, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Enjoy it! Use music, stories, or themes to engage students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can either conduct video-based activities or assign students challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

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

Contrary to popular belief studies show that students who move regularly are more focused, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment in learning, not a distraction.

How can we fit in the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine in order to switch between different topics or following intense concentration. Even short activities can bring significant advantages.

What if the classroom space that we have available is not enough?

Some activities can be performed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Stretching in a chair, sitting, or even simple hand and arm movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on School Culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about individual benefits; it's about fostering the school's culture of health, well-being, and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Improved overall student health and less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness initiatives such as bullying prevention, nutrition education, 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 then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be constant: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Solicit Feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools have a 30-minute break to walk around. But, the frequency of breaks is adjustable depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movement breaks appropriate for everyone?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient moves require no or little equipment, such as scarves, music, or balls.

Integrating breaks for exercise into each school day can have a wide array of advantages. The research shows that physical activity is crucial for many reasons that include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behavior. No matter if you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing movement breaks is a way to invest in the next generation's success.

Let's make it a non-negotiable part of every student's school experience--because when students move, they learn, grow and prosper.