Overcoming Resistance: Getting Staff on Board with Movement Breaks

In the current rapidly changing education system the spotlight is shifting to the overall development of students. The quality of their education and the scores they score are important however, a growing amount of research highlights a crucial factor that is often left unnoticed: movement breaks 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. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an important part of every school day, and the advantages they bring and provide practical tips for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks at schools?

Motion breaks--also called brain breaks, activity breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short periods within the school day during which students are required to participate in physical activity. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, or other organized games, exercises or mindfulness activities. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running in the same
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• 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 main motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of exercise. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation because they are occupied for so many hours in class.

School-based movement breaks Offer Several Health Benefits

• Increase fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and helps in the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time studying leads to better results studies show that integrating movement breaks can actually enhance academic performance. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients essential for cognitive function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

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

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

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a concern that concerns many students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many students who are in school. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Teamwork and social interaction

Physical activity during the school hours provides an opportunity to release any excess energy, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive school environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or any other needs. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Create inclusive classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted, they can be tailored to fit the needs of various age groups, physical abilities, and learning style. The types of breaks offered range from simple chair stretches all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They ensure that each student can thrive.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during long instructional blocks.
• Simple. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it: Make use of stories, music or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine techniques.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or provide students with movement-related tasks to finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

Contrary to popular belief studies show that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment into learning and not distracting.

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

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine for transitions between different topics or following intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

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

Many movement activities require little space or can be done by standing in front of desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even simple hand and arm movements work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about individual benefits; it's about fostering a school culture that values wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that emphasize movement tend to experience:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are enhanced
• More satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
• Higher academic performance

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness initiatives like social-emotional education as well as nutrition education and anti-bullying programs.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Begin slowly: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Be regular: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement breaks for movement?

Experts suggest that schools take a 30-minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks can be altered according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movement breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! Movement breaks can be tailored to preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating movements into your schoolday is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical fitness to improving mental well-being and classroom behavior It's clear from the research that movement is crucial. It is possible to invest in the future of your students whether you are an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or politician.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for every student. Students learn, grow and prosper by moving.