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The holistic development of the student is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing educational landscape. Academic rigor and test scores remain important however, a growing amount of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. With sedentary classrooms and more screen time are becoming the standard, the demand for purposeful, structured physical activities during the school day has never been more urgent. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind the benefits of these breaks, and present actionable strategies for educators and administrators.
Motion breaks--also called brain breaks, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short breaks during the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more formal exercises, games or mindfulness exercises that involve movement. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and help them refocus their minds.
The positive impact of exercise breaks for health is among the strongest reasons for incorporating these breaks into your daily routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical movement each day. But, many children aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.
School breaks during movement offer several health advantages:
Regular exercise also improves the immune system and encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.
Contrary to the notion that more time on academics leads to better results, research shows that integrating movement breaks can actually increase academic performance. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, providing nutrients and oxygen that are crucial for the functioning of the brain.
Its primary academic benefits include:
According to research the students who have movement breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores over those who don't.
Mental health is a concern that is a concern for many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of children who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.
Emotional benefits include:
Physical activity throughout the day can help to release pent up energy anger, stress or anxiety. This creates positive atmosphere in the classroom.
Students who suffer from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other special needs can benefit from a break in their movement. Physical exercise can help students control their energy levels, boost executive function, and help them better participate in academic tasks.
Since movement breaks are adaptable they can be tailored to fit the needs of different ages, physical abilities, and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities movement breaks ensure every student is able to thrive.
Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or give students movement tasks they can complete at their homes.
However studies show that students who regularly move are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not a distraction.
The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into interludes between subjects, or after time of intense focus. Even short activities have obvious benefits.
Many activities that require only a little space or can be done standing beside desks. Seated stretches, chair yoga, or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.
It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about establishing a culture within schools that is centered around wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:
Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness initiatives, such as social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.
The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be adjusted to fit the needs of each school's particular situation.
No. No. The movement breaks aren't as a substitute for organized physical education. They are meant to enhance it.
Yes! Yes!
Not at all. Some of the most effective movements require no or little equipment, including scarves or music, or even balls.
Incorporating breaks for exercise into each school day could provide a broad array of advantages. Research shows that movement is important for many reasons that include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. You can make a difference in the lives of your students, whether you are a teacher or administrator as well as a parent or politician.
Let's make it a non-negotiable part of every student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, develop, and thrive.
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