Free Resources for School Movement Programs

In the current rapidly changing education system the spotlight is turning to the holistic development of students. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured, purposeful physical activity in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are now the norm. This guide will explain the reasons why breaks for movement are essential to every school day, the benefits they provide and give practical suggestions for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also known as brain breaks break, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day when students are motivated to engage in physical activity. The breaks may range from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more structured games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require movement. Unlike physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and refresh their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest motives to include movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. A lot of students don't adhere to this advice because they spend so many hours in class.

Movement Breaks in Schools provide a number of health benefits

• Enhance cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system and helps in the development of lifelong healthy lifestyles.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that spending more time in school will result in higher scores, research has proven that taking movement breaks during class can improve academic performance . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are crucial for cognitive functioning.

The key academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• Increased focus on task

According to studies, students who take movement breaks are more concentrated and score higher over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety and depression plaguing many school-age children. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

Physical activity throughout the day can help to release pent up energy and stress. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or sensory processing challenges, or any other needs. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise in regulating their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Create inclusive classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of different ages, physical abilities, and learning style. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities movement breaks guarantee each student gets the chance to thrive.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think jumping, stretching, or quick games.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, storytelling, or themes to keep students entertained.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide activity breaks in a confident manner.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can facilitate live activity sessions on video calls or assign movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

Studies show that students who regularly move are more productive and focused in classes. Breaks for movement are an Investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we make time for movement in a packed schedule?"

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into interludes between subjects, or after times of intense focus. Even short activities can bring noticeable advantages.

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

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or simple arm and hand exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on School Culture

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that is centered around well-being, health, and lifelong education. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are enhanced
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are stronger

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness initiatives, such as social-emotional learning, nutrition education, or anti-bullying programs.

Start with these Tips

1. Begin slow: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to introduce movement breaks?

Experts suggest that schools should take a 30 minute break to move around. However, the frequency of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just simple objects like balls, scarves, or music.

Incorporating breaks to move into the daily school routine can have a wide range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical fitness to improving mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear that movement is crucial. It is possible to make a difference in the lives of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher, a parent or a policymaker.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of each student's school experience--because when students move they learn, improve and flourish.