Movement Breaks for Inclusive Classrooms

The overall growth of the student is becoming more important in the rapidly changing educational landscape. While academic rigor and scores on tests are still important, increasing body of research has highlighted an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured 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 becoming the standard. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule and uncover the science that explains their benefits, and provide concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in the Schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged to engage with physical activity. These breaks may include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness exercises. The movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow an established curriculum, are often brief interruptions to the class's sedentary time. They help refocus students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place jacks
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why movement breaks matter The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of movement breaks for health is one of the strongest reasons for incorporating them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children take part in 60 minutes of exercise. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation due to the fact that they spend too many hours in the classroom.

Breaks in school for movement can provide a variety of health advantages:

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

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

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time in school can lead to better grades Research has shown that incorporating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen which are vital for cognitive functioning.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• 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 score higher than those who do not.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for students who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in managing emotions and improving mental health is widely known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the day can assist to let go of any tension anger, stress or anxiety. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or sensory processing challenges, or other special needs. Physical activity can help these students control their energy levels, enhance executive function, and help them better perform in academic activities.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Because they are easily adaptable they can be tailored to fit the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning styles. Movement breaks can vary from simple stretches on the chair up to interactive group exercises. They make sure that every student is able to thrive.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important in long blocks of instruction.
• Simple. Choose routines that are easy to do and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it: Use music, stories, or themes to engage students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide activity breaks confidently.
• Monitor progress: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine techniques.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the classroom?

Contrary to popular belief studies show that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How do we find time to move when our schedule is so packed?

Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or following time of intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

"What if our classroom space isn't enough?"

Many movement activities require little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic arm and hand movements work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: Movement Breaks and School Culture

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks; it's also about establishing a culture within schools that promotes health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Students who are healthier and have more absences
• School spirit and community involvement are enhanced
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness-related initiatives, like nutrition education, anti-bullying, social-emotional training, and social-emotional-learning can be aligned with movement breaks.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start slow: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be regular. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep your students entertained.
4. Solicit Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools start introducing breaks for movement?

Experts suggest that schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. However, the duration of breaks can be altered in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities do not require any equipment or basic items such as scarves, balls, or music.

Integrating breaks to move throughout the school day could provide a broad array of advantages. Research shows that physical activity is crucial for a variety 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 an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing regular breaks in your routine is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for every student. Learners grow and prosper when they move.