Planning for Movement Breaks in School Budgets

The overall growth of the student is increasingly crucial in the current rapidly evolving educational landscape. Academic rigor and test scores remain crucial however, a growing amount of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized and purposeful physical activities 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 commonplace. This guide will explore why movement breaks are essential to every school day, the advantages they bring and provide practical tips for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks at schools?

Motion breaks--also known as brain breaks, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are brief periods during the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. These breaks can include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined curriculum, movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running in place or jumping Jacks
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks on the health of a person is among the strongest reasons for incorporating them into your routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of regular exercise. Yet, many students fall short of this recommendation due to long hours spent sitting in classrooms.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

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

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and encourages the development of lifelong healthy lifestyles.

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

In contrast to the popular belief that more time spent in school results in better scores, research has proven that taking a break during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts blood flow to your brain. This delivers oxygen and nutrients essential for brain function.

Key academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• An increase in the amount of time spent on task.

Research has shown that students who receive breaks to move return to work more focused and have greater achievement scores when compared with those without such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a matter that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of students who are in school. The movement breaks play an important role in supporting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins are released to create a positive feeling
• Social interaction and teamwork

The physical activity you do throughout the day can help to let go of any tension anger, stress or anxiety. This will create an environment that is positive for students.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD, sensory processing issues or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. Physical activity can help these students control their energy levels, boost their executive functioning, and enable them to better participate in academic tasks.

Create inclusive classrooms

Because they are adaptable, they can be tailored to fit the needs of different age groups, physical abilities, and learning methods. Movement breaks can vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They guarantee that each student can succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

For Teachers

• Set 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 running, jumping, or quick games.
• Have fun with it: Use music, stories, or themes to engage students.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide breaks with confidence.
• Monitor progress: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally essential during online learning. Teachers can facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

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

However research has shown that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more productive during lessons. The movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not distracting.

How do we make the time needed to move, when our schedule is so packed?

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into interludes between subjects, or after time that require intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom isn't enough?"

Many activities that require only a little space or are done standing beside desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting, or even simple hand and arm exercises work well in small classrooms.

The Impact of The Broader Impact:

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks; it's also about creating a culture in schools that promotes well-being, health, and lifelong education. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Students with healthier health and less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• More academically successful

Other wellness initiatives such as bullying prevention, nutrition education, social-emotional training, and social-emotional-learning could be linked to movement breaks.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Be regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Experts suggest schools have a 30-minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks is adjustable according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Breaks in movement aren't a substitute for structured exercise. They are designed to supplement it.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! The timing of breaks for movement can be customized to preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements need no equipment, or just simple objects like scarves, balls, or music.

Integrating breaks for exercise throughout the school day could provide a broad range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear: movement matters. No matter if you're a teacher administrator, parent, or policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine is a way to invest in the success of the next generation.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of each student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, improve and flourish.