Encouraging Teacher Participation in Movement

In the current rapidly changing educational environment the spotlight is turning to the holistic development of students. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the norm. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a cornerstone of any school's daily routine, uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks may include dancing, stretching, organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to re-energize students and refresh their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place over jacks
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is the positive effect they have on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens take part in 60 minutes of physical activity. However, many students aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent in the classroom.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health advantages:

• Enhance cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

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

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to popular belief that more time on academics leads to better results Research has shown that incorporating movement breaks can actually improve the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are crucial to cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• Increased focus on task

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

Mental health is a matter that is a concern for many students. Anxiety, stress and depression impact a lot of students of school age. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

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

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for those with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), problems with sensory processing or other special needs. Students with these conditions can benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic activities.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Movement breaks are easily modified to meet the requirements of various age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities, break breaks are designed to ensure that every child gets the chance to excel.

How do you incorporate breaks for movement into your day

For Teachers

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in long instructional blocks.
• Simple. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require little equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it! Make use of stories, music, or themes to get students involved.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead breaks with confidence.
• Monitor the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Movement breaks are just as crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can lead live activities through video calls, or give movement-related challenges to students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

On the contrary, research shows that students who regularly move are more concentrated, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How can we create the time to move during an already packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or during time of intense focus. Even short activity has noticeable advantages.

What if the classroom space we have is limited?

Certain activities can be done at desks, or in a smaller space. Chair yoga, seated stretches, or even simple arm and hand movements work well in small classrooms.

The Greater Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not only about the personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that is centered around wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that prioritize exercise are likely to have:

• Students who are healthier and have lower absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness programs, such as education on nutrition, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning can be aligned with the breaks in your exercise.

Start with these Tips

1. Start slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Ask for feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools have a 30-minute break for movement. But, the frequency of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Movement breaks are not an alternative to structured exercise. They are intended to complement 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 no or little equipment, including scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating breaks for exercise throughout the school day can provide a vast array of advantages. The research shows that physical activity is crucial for a myriad of reasons that include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Make movement an essential element of school life for every student. Learners grow and flourish by moving.