Fostering Empathy and Inclusion Through Movement

In today's rapidly evolving education system the spotlight is turning to the holistic growth of students. While academic test scores and rigor remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research has highlighted 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 vital. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are now the commonplace. In this article we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule as well as the scientific basis that explains their advantages, and offer concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks are short breaks in the school day when students are encouraged engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more organized exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities which require moving. The movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education, which follow the same curriculum, are frequently and short interruptions in sedentary class time. They can help students refocus their to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of exercise breaks on the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. Many students do not meet this recommendation because they spend long hours in school.

School-based movement breaks provide a number of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Help with weight loss
• Combating childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system, and encourages healthy habits for life.

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

Contrary to the widely held belief that more time spent in school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break in class can boost the academic level of students . Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

Key academic benefits include:

• Increased focus and attention
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Increased focus on task

According to studies, students who take movement breaks are more focused and have higher scores over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for children of school age. The importance of regular exercise in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

Physical activity during school hours provides a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration or anxiety, which can help to create a more comfortable and positive environment in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or sensory processing challenges, or any other needs. They benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic assignments.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

The movement breaks can easily be adapted to meet the requirements of different types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. Breaks for movement can range from simple chair stretches through interactive group exercises. They guarantee that each child can succeed.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your day

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are easy to do and require little equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking a break to move.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools, or even mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve methods.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can conduct live activities via video calls or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

Research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more productive and focused in classes. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How do we find the time needed to move, when our schedules are jammed?

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule for transitions between topics or after intensive concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

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

Certain activities can be done at desks, or in a smaller space. Seated stretches, chair yoga or even basic hand and arm exercises work well in small classrooms.

The Impact of Movement Breaks and School Culture

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks, but also about establishing a culture in schools that promotes wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Improved overall student health and less absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are more impressive

Other wellness initiatives such as education on nutrition, anti-bullying and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional learning can be incorporated into breaks for movement.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day and increase it from there.
2. Keep it regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Get feedback: Ask students and teachers for 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?

Experts recommend that schools have a 30-minute break for movement. However, the duration of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to structured physical education. They are meant to complement it.

Is movement appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient exercises require minimal or no equipment, like scarves or music, or even balls.

Integrating breaks for movement into each school day can have a wide array of advantages. From improving academic performance to improving physical health, to promoting mental well-being and classroom behavior The research proves that movement is crucial. You can invest in the future of your students, whether you're an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or politician.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Because when students move, they learn, grow and prosper.