Developing Partnerships with PE Teachers

The overall development of the student is becoming increasingly important in the rapidly changing education system. While academic test scores and rigor are still important, increasing body research highlights an element that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are now the standard. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule, uncover the science that explains the benefits of these breaks, and present practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks activities breaks, brain breaks, or physical activity breaks--are brief periods during the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activity. These breaks may include dancing, stretching, structured games or exercises, or mindfulness activities. The movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education, which follow the same curriculum, are frequently and short interruptions in classes that are sedentary. They can help students refocus their in their minds and help them reenergize.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the most compelling motives to include movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens engage in 60 minutes of physical activity. But, many children do not meet this requirement because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health benefits:

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

Regular exercise improves your immune system, and encourages good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the common belief that spending more time in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking movement breaks during class can improve the academic level of students . Exercise increases circulation of blood to your brain. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients essential for brain function.

Key academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Increased focus on task behavior

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a matter that is a concern for many students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many children who are in school. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins are released and create a positive feeling
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical activity you do during the day can help to release pent up energy, frustration or worry. This will create an environment that is positive for students.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and problems with sensory processing or any other needs. Physical activity can help these students manage their energy levels, boost executive function, and better perform in academic activities.

Create inclusive classrooms

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to accommodate the needs of different types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to group-based activities that are interactive, breaks in the form of movement ensure that every child is able to thrive.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during long instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it! Use music, stories or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families on the benefits of movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally important in virtual learning. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or give students movement challenges to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Contrary to popular belief studies show that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more productive during lessons. The breaks during movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How do we make the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or after periods that require intense concentration. Even short activities can bring significant benefits.

"What is the best course to take if space isn't enough?"

Some exercises can be completed standing next to desks or in a small space. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even basic hand and arm movements work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: The Broader Impact:

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about fostering an environment that promotes health, well-being, and lifelong learning. Schools that emphasize exercise are likely to have:

• Students with better health and more absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness initiatives including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and programs that combat bullying.

Tips to Get Started

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Get 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 breaks for movement?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes, however, the time interval can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't a substitute for organized exercise. They are meant to supplement it.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! The timing of breaks for movement can be customized to preschoolers, elementary middle, high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Integrating breaks for exercise into each school day can provide a vast array of advantages. Research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behavior. You can make a difference in the lives of your students whether you are a teacher or administrator or parent, or even a policymaker.

Let's make moving a mandatory part of every student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, develop and flourish.