Encouraging Teacher Participation in Movement

In the current rapidly changing education system the spotlight is turning to the holistic growth of students. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body research highlights an element which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time is becoming the standard. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an essential part of any school day, and the advantages they bring and give practical suggestions for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks at schools?

Movement breaks--also known as breaks for the brain break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short breaks during the school day where students are required to participate in physical activity. These breaks can range from short periods of stretching or dancing to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that require moving. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refresh their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in place or jumping over jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily physical activity breaks for health is one of the most compelling reasons for including these breaks into your daily routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and teens should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical movement each day. However, many students do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent in class.

School breaks during movement provide numerous health advantages:

• Improve cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise also improves your immune system, and helps you maintain healthy habits for life.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to the common belief that a longer time at school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking movement breaks during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients which are vital to cognitive function.

The main benefits for academics include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more focused and have higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety, and depression affecting many school-age youngsters. Movement breaks play a significant role in supporting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and teamwork

Exercise during the school day provides an outlet for the accumulated energy, frustration or anxiety, which can help to create a positive school environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. Physical activity can help students regulate their energy levels, enhance their executive functioning, and enable them to better take on academic tasks.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the requirements of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities, movement breaks ensure that every child is able to excel.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in long instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping, or quick games.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories, or themes to keep your students interested.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their preferred movement activities.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Breaks for movement are equally important in virtual learning. Teachers may lead video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related tasks they can complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the class?

Studies show that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in class. Breaks for movement are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we find time for movement in the midst of a busy schedule?"

Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into the transition between subjects or following time of intense focus. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

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

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space or are done by standing in front of desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic arm and hand movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The impact of movement breaks on the School Culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about individual benefits; it's about fostering the school's culture of well-being, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to experience:

• Students who are healthier and have more absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• More satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
• Academic results that are more impressive

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs like social-emotional education, nutrition education, and anti-bullying programs.

Start with these Tips

1. Start slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be regular: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the recommended frequency for schools to institute movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools have a 30-minute break to move around. However, the frequency of breaks is adjustable in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Movement breaks are not an alternative to organized physical education. They are meant to complement it.

Is movement appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most effective movements require no or little equipment, including scarves and music or balls.

Integrating breaks to move into the daily school routine can have a wide range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical fitness to improving wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear: movement matters. You can invest in the future of your students whether you're an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or policymaker.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of every student's educational experience. Because when students move they learn, develop and flourish.