Researching Student Preferences for Movement Breaks

In today's ever-changing education system the spotlight is focused on the holistic student's development. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. With sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time becomes the commonplace, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activity throughout the school day is never greater. This guide will explain the reasons why breaks for movement are essential to every school day, the advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks at schools?

Movement breaks--also called breaks for the brain, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are brief periods during the school day when students are motivated to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more organized exercises, games or even mindfulness-based activities which require moving. Breaks for movement, in contrast to classes in physical education, which follow an established curriculum, are often, short interruptions of classes that are sedentary. They aid in refocusing students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks on the health of a person is one of the main reasons to incorporate these breaks into your daily routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents should participate in at 60 minutes of exercise movement each day. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation because they are occupied for too many hours in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

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

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

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to the common belief that spending more time in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking a break in class can boost the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Increased focus and attention
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Focus on the task is increased.

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores than students who don't.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

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

Emotional Benefits include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can help to let go of any tension anger, stress or anxiety. This can create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or any other needs. They can benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Since movement breaks are easily adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of various age groups, physical abilities, and learning style. Movement breaks can range from simple chair stretches all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They make sure that each child can succeed.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during long instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think stretching, jumping, or quick games.
• Enjoy it! Make use of stories, music, or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide breaks with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can either facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the classroom?

On the contrary, research shows that students who regularly move are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during 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 jammed?

You can include brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule for transitions between subjects or to recover from intensive concentration. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

Some exercises can be completed sitting next to desks or in a tiny space. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even simple hand and arm exercises can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks; it's also about establishing a culture within schools that values well-being, health, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students who are healthier and have less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are enhanced
• Higher teacher satisfaction and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness activities like social-emotional education, nutrition education, and anti-bullying programs.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and increase it from there.
2. Be regular: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep your students entertained.
4. Ask for feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to introduce movement breaks?

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. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't a substitute for regular exercise. They are designed to supplement it.

Is it appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective exercises require little or no equipment, such as scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating movements into your schoolday is a simple method that is based on research and has a wide range of benefits. Research shows that physical activity is crucial for a myriad of reasons which include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or the policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Make movement an essential part of the school experience for every student. Students learn, develop and thrive when they move.