How to Start a Pilot Program for Movement Breaks

In today's ever-changing educational environment, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the holistic student's development. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain important, a growing body of research reveals an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized and purposeful physical activities in the classroom has never been more important. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are now the norm. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a cornerstone of every school's daily schedule and uncover the science that explains the benefits of these breaks, and present concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also called brain breaks activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks are short periods within the school day during which students are motivated to engage in physical activity. The breaks may range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that require movement. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and help them refocus 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

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks on the health of a person is one of the main reasons to incorporate them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation because they are occupied for long hours in school.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health benefits:

• Increase the cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Support healthy weight management
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise improves your immune system, and encourages lifestyle changes that are healthy for your future.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the notion that spending more time studying can lead to better grades Research has shown that incorporating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing nutrients and oxygen which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

The main benefits for academics include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• More focused the amount of time spent on task.

Research has shown that students who get breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate better achievement scores than students who do not have such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental wellbeing of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged children. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and make you feel good
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can assist to let go of any tension and stress. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. Physical activity can help these students regulate their energy levels, enhance executive function, and better perform in academic activities.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Breaks in the movement can be easily adapted to meet the needs of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to group-based activities that are interactive, movement breaks ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your schedule

For Teachers

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during long blocks of instruction.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require no equipment or preparation.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students engaged.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking a break to move.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct activity breaks confidently.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Movement breaks are equally important. Teachers can conduct live activities via video calls or provide movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the classroom?

However, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Movement breaks can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How can we fit in the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between subjects or to recover from intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide tangible advantages.

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

Some activities can be performed standing next to desks or in a tiny space. Seated stretches, chair yoga, or even simple hand and arm exercises can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Greater Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not just about personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about creating a culture in schools that values health, wellbeing and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on exercise are likely to have:

• Students who are healthier and have more absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are increased
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness activities including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and programs that combat bullying.

Start with these Tips

1. Begin slowly: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Be regular: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Solicit Feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools start introducing breaks for movement?

Experts recommend that schools take a 30-minute break for movement. But, the frequency of breaks can be altered depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to regular exercise. They are meant to supplement it.

Are exercise breaks suitable for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating movements into your school day is a simple approach that has proven advantages. The research shows that movement is important for many reasons, including improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. You can invest in the future of your students whether you are a teacher or administrator, a parent or a politician.

Include movement as an integral element of school life for all students. Learners develop and prosper when they move.