Using Sports Themes for Fun Breaks

The overall growth of the student is becoming more important in the rapidly changing educational landscape. Academic rigor and test scores remain important however, a growing amount of research highlights a crucial element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. As sedentary classroom routines and increasing screen time becomes the commonplace, the need for structured, purposeful physical activity during the school day is never greater. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule and uncover the science behind the benefits of these breaks, and present practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Motion breaks--also called brain breaks, activity breaks or physical activity breaks -- are brief periods during the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. They can be a time for stretching, dancing, more organized games, exercises or mindfulness-based activities. Unlike physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set schedule, these breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refresh their minds.

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

One of the most compelling reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is the positive effect they have on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children take part in 60 minutes of exercise. But, many children aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent in class.

Breaks in school for movement offer several health advantages:

• Increase cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Help support healthy weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to the widely held belief that a longer time at school leads to better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the circulation of blood to your brain. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients essential for cognitive functioning.

The most important benefits for academics include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Focus on the task is increased.

The results of studies have shown that students who are given breaks for movement return to their work more focused and have better achievement scores than those without such breaks.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental health of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. Movement breaks play a significant role in supporting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can help to release the tension and stress. This creates a positive classroom atmosphere.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from movement breaks. Physical activity can help these students regulate their energy levels, boost their executive functioning, and enable them to better take on academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the requirements of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities, movement breaks ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think stretching, jumping, or quick games.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, stories, or themes to keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. The breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can conduct live activity sessions on video calls or provide movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

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

However, research shows that students who regularly move are more focused, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment in learning, not a distraction.

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

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between subjects or to recover from intense concentration. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

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

Many activities that require only a little space or are done by standing in front of desks. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even basic hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks; it's also about creating a culture in schools that values wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that emphasize exercise are likely to have:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Higher teacher satisfaction and lower rates of burnout
• Higher academic performance

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

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Solicit Feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes, but the frequency can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. The movement breaks aren't as a substitute for regular exercise. They are designed to supplement it.

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just basic items such as balls, scarves or even music.

Incorporating breaks for exercise throughout the school day could provide a broad range of benefits. Research shows that physical activity is crucial for many reasons which include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher, a parent or a policymaker.

Include movement as an integral aspect of the school day for all students. Learners grow and flourish by moving.