The Science Behind Movement Breaks and Student Focus

The holistic growth of the student is becoming increasingly important in the current rapidly evolving educational environment. The quality of their education and the scores they score are important, but a growing body of research reveals a key factor that is often left unnoticed: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity 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 explore why movement breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are the movement breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also known as breaks for the brain, activity breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short breaks during the school day where students are required to participate in physical activities. The breaks may range from short periods of dancing or stretching to more organized exercises, games or even mindfulness-based activities which require movement. Breaks for movement, in contrast to classes in physical education, which follow an established curriculum, are often and short interruptions in classes that are sedentary. They can help students refocus their' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of movement breaks

• In place running or jumping 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 strongest motives to include movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at 60 minutes of exercise movement each day. Yet, many students do not meet this requirement because they are unable to spend enough time in class.

Movement Breaks in Schools Offer Several Health Benefits

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

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

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school will result in higher scores, research has proven that taking breaks to move during class can improve academic performance . Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are essential to cognitive function.

Key academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

The results of studies have shown that students who get breaks for movement return to their work more focused and have greater achievement scores when compared with those who don't get such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a matter that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many youngsters of school age. Movement breaks play a significant role in helping to regulate emotions and well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and give you a feeling of happiness
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can help to release pent up energy, frustration or worry. This will create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), problems with sensory processing or other special needs. Physical activity can help students control their energy levels, enhance executive function, and better participate in academic tasks.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Movement breaks can easily be adapted to meet the needs of different types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities movement breaks make sure that every student gets the chance to excel.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your schedule

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during long instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling, or themes to keep students engaged.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead activity breaks in a confident manner.
• Follow progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally essential during online learning. Teachers can conduct live activities on video calls or provide movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

However, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment into learning and not a distraction.

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

You can include brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine, either to transition between topics or after intensive concentration. Even brief activity provides significant advantages.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

Some activities can be performed standing next to desks or in a small space. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic arm and hand movements work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about fostering a school culture that values well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are stronger

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs like social-emotional education as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
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)

How often should schools implement movement breaks?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Breaks for movement can be adapted for elementary school children, preschoolers, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just simple objects like balls, scarves or music.

Integrating breaks for exercise throughout the school day could provide a broad array of advantages. From boosting academic performance and physical health, to promoting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior The research proves that movement is important. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.

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