Movement Breaks and Mindful Breathing

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall growth of students. While academic rigor and 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 active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are now the standard. In this guide we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science of their advantages, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks at schools?

Movement Breaks Also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods during the school day where students are encouraged engage in physical activities. These breaks can include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness exercises. In contrast to physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in the same
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Many students do not comply with this requirement due to the fact that they spend too many hours in the classroom.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health advantages:

• Improve your the cardiovascular fitness
• Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
• Help with weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system and encourages good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to the belief that spending more time in school can lead to better grades, research shows that integrating movement breaks can actually increase the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This provides nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive function.

The main benefits for academics include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• More focused focus on task behavior

Research has shown that students who get breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate greater achievement scores when compared with those who don't get such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental health of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety and depression plaguing many school-age youngsters. The movement breaks play an important role in helping to regulate emotions and well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the school day provides an outlet for the accumulated anger, frustration, or worry, helping to create a positive classroom environment.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or any other needs. They benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic activities.

Create inclusive classrooms

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to accommodate the needs of different levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. From simple chair stretches to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement make sure that every student is able to succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in long instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, stories, or other themes that keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers can conduct live activity sessions on video calls or assign movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Research shows that students who move regularly are more productive and focused in classes. The movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not a distraction.

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

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or following time that require intense concentration. Even brief activity provides noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which we have isn't enough?

Many activities that require only a little space or are done standing beside desks. In small classrooms, sitting stretching, chair-yoga or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on the School Culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks into your school day; it's about creating a culture in schools that promotes health, wellbeing and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Academic results that are more impressive

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness initiatives like social-emotional education, nutrition education, and programs that combat bullying.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start with a small amount: 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 your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep your students entertained.
4. Ask for feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to start introducing movement breaks?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes, but the frequency can be altered to meet each school's unique needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Movement breaks are not a substitute for structured physical education. They are designed to supplement it.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities need no equipment, or just simple objects like balls, scarves, or even music.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple approach that has proven advantages. From boosting academic performance and physical fitness to improving wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear that movement is crucial. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or a policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is a way to invest in the next generation's success.

Include movement as an integral element of school life for every student. Learners grow and prosper by moving.