Overcoming Resistance: Getting Staff on Board with Movement Breaks

The holistic development of the child is increasingly crucial in the current rapidly evolving educational landscape. The quality of their education and the scores they score remain crucial however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more vital. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time is becoming the commonplace. In this guide we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be a cornerstone of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks at schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or physical activity breaks are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged engage in physical activities. These breaks may include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular movement breaks on health is among the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens engage in 60 minutes of physical activity. But, many children fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

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

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system and encourages good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time studying leads to better results, research shows that integrating breaks for movement can enhance the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to your brain. This delivers nutrients and oxygen that are essential to brain function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Increased focus on task

Studies have found that students who are given movement breaks return to tasks with greater concentration and show better achievement scores than students who do not have such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is an issue that concerns many students. Anxiety, stress and depression impact a lot of students of school age. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release pent up energy and stress. This can create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. These students will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Breaks in the movement are easily modified to meet the requirements of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. The types of breaks offered be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They ensure that every student is able to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

For Teachers

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think stretching, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Monitor progress: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally important in virtual learning. Teachers can conduct live sessions of activity through video calls, or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the classroom?

Contrary to popular belief research has shown that students who regularly move are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. Movement breaks are an investment into learning and not distracting.

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

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your routine, either to transition between different topics or following intensive concentration. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

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

Many movement activities require little space, or can be performed by standing in front of desks. In smaller classrooms, seated yoga, stretches in a chair, or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The Greater Impact: The Broader Impact:

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about fostering a school culture that values wellbeing, health, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that emphasize movement tend to experience:

• Students who are healthier and have more absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are boosted
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Higher academic performance

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness activities including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, or programs to combat bullying.

Tips to get started

1. Begin slow: Start with just two or three breaks per day.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be adjusted to suit the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to regular physical education. They are meant to supplement it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating breaks for exercise into the daily school routine can have a wide variety of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health to supporting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom It's clear from the research 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 politician.

Making movement a vital aspect of the school day for all students. Students learn, grow and prosper when they move.