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Creating Movement Corners in the Classroom

Published en
4 min read

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape The spotlight is now focused on the holistic student's development. 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 active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more important. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time is becoming the standard. In this article we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind their advantages, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in 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. The breaks may range from a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more organized games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require movement. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

  • In place running or jumping Jacks
  • Yoga Poses or Stretching
  • Quick dance routines
  • Brain gym activities
  • Games that require group participation.
  • Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks for health is one of the strongest reasons for incorporating them into your routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children get 60 minutes of regular exercise. But, many children aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent in the classroom.

Movement Breaks in Schools Provide a variety of health benefits

  • Increase your cardiovascular fitness
  • Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
  • Weight management: Help support healthy weight loss
  • Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the development of lifelong healthy lifestyles.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that spending more time in school results in better scores, research has proven that taking a break during classes can enhance academic performance . Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, providing nutrients and oxygen that are essential for the functioning of the brain.

Key academic benefits include:

  • Focus and attention can be improved
  • Enhanced memory retention
  • Better problem-solving skills
  • Higher engagement and participation
  • A greater focus on the task

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and achieve higher scores than students who don't.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety, and depression affecting many school-age children. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is widely known.

Emotional benefits include:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Self-esteem and improved mood
  • Release of "feel good" endorphins
  • Social interaction opportunities and teamwork

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release pent up energy anger, stress or anxiety. This can create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD or sensory processing problems or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. Physical activity can help students control their energy levels, enhance their executive functioning, and enable them to better participate in academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Because they are adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the requirements of different ages and physical abilities as well as learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

Teachers can profit from this resource

  • Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially during long blocks of instruction.
  • Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think stretching, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
  • Enjoy it! Use music, stories, or themes to get students involved.
  • Engage students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

  • Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of movement breaks.
  • Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
  • Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to lead activities with confidence.
  • Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally essential during online learning. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related tasks to finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the classroom?

Research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Movement breaks can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How do we find the time needed to move, when our schedules are jammed?

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between subjects or to recover from intense concentration. Even short activity has noticeable advantages.

"What do we do if our classroom is limited?"

Some activities can be performed standing next to desks or in a small space. Seated stretches, chair yoga or even basic hand and arm movements work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: Movement Breaks and School Culture

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks; it's also about establishing a culture in schools that promotes well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

  • Improved overall student health and less absences
  • Improved school spirit and community
  • Greater satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
  • Academic results that are stronger

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

Get Started with These Tips

  1. Begin slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
  2. Be constant: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
  3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
  4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
  5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be altered to meet the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Breaks for movement can be adapted to preschoolers, elementary middle, high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most efficient movements require minimal or no equipment, like scarves, music, or balls.

Incorporating breaks for exercise into the daily school routine can have a wide array of advantages. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom It's clear from the research: movement matters. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement is a way to invest in the future of our children's success.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of every student's educational experience. Because when students move they learn, develop and flourish.

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