Tips for New Teachers: Starting with Movement Breaks

The overall growth of the student is increasingly crucial in the current rapidly evolving education system. Academic rigor and test scores are important however, a growing body of research highlights a crucial aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom has never been more important. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time is becoming the commonplace. This guide will explore the reason why break time is an important part of every school day, what advantages they bring and give practical suggestions for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also known as breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks are brief periods during the school day where students are motivated to engage in physical activity. These breaks may include dancing, stretching, structured exercises or games, or mindfulness exercises. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running in place
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents must engage in at 60 minutes of exercise movement each day. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation because they spend long hours in school.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health advantages:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system and promotes good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Advantages to the brain and education

Contrary to the notion that spending more time studying can lead to better grades studies show that integrating breaks for movement can enhance the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

The main academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Increased the amount of time spent on task.

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more concentrated and have higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression affect many students of school age. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is well known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the day can help to let go of any tension and stress. This will create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD or sensory processing problems or other special needs can benefit from a break in their movement. Physical exercise can help students control their energy levels, improve executive function, and help them better take on academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Since movement breaks are easily adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different ages, physical abilities, and learning styles. Movement breaks can range from simple chair stretches through interactive group exercises. They ensure that each student can succeed.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during 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 fun: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students engaged.
• Involve students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Develop policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Monitor the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve techniques.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can either conduct video-based activities or give students movement challenges to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the classroom?

On the contrary, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive and more productive during lessons. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we find enough time to move in the midst of a busy schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or following periods that require intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

What if the classroom space that we have available is not enough?

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In smaller classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or just simple hand and arm movements can be effective.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the school culture

It's not only about the personal benefits of having movement breaks; it's also about creating a culture in schools that promotes well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students who are healthier and have lower absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are boosted
• More satisfaction of teachers and lower rates of burnout
• Stronger academic outcomes

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness activities like social-emotional education as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.

Tips to get started

1. Start slow: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be consistent. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

Experts suggest that schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. However, the frequency 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--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective movements require little or no equipment, such as scarves or music, or even balls.

Incorporating the benefits of movement into each schoolday is a simple approach that has proven benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom It's clear from the research that movement is important. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or the policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the future of our children's success.

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