Evaluating Movement Break Programs: What Works

In today's ever-changing educational environment, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the holistic development of students. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain important, a growing body research highlights an element 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. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are becoming the norm. This guide will explain 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 movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also called breaks for the brain, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short periods within the school day during which students are motivated to engage in physical activity. They can be anything from just a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more organized exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities that involve movements. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and refresh their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular exercise breaks on health is one of the most compelling reasons for including them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents take part in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. But, many children fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.

Movement breaks in schools offer several health advantages:

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system and encourages the development of lifelong healthy routines.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that more time spent in school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This delivers oxygen and nutrients that are vital for brain function.

The key academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• Increased focus on task

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that is a concern for many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of students who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is widely known.

Emotional benefits include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released to create a positive feeling
• Social interaction and teamwork

The physical exercise you engage in throughout the day can help to let go of any tension and stress. This creates positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD, sensory processing issues or any other specific needs may benefit from a break in their movement. Physical activity can help these students control their energy levels, boost executive function, and help them better perform in academic activities.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because they are adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different age groups, physical abilities, and learning style. Breaks for movement can be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They ensure that every student is able to thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

Teachers can profit from this toolkit

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as jumping, stretching or playing games in a short time.
• Have fun with it! Make use of stories, music or themes to entice students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Develop policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead activity breaks confidently.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is no different. Movement breaks are equally important. Teachers can lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks they can finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the classroom?

Studies show that students who regularly move are more productive and focused in classes. Breaks for movement are an Investment into learning and not a distraction.

How do we make the time to move if our schedules are jammed?

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule in order to switch between different topics or following intensive concentration. Even short activities can bring significant advantages.

What if the classroom space we have is limited?

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space or are done sitting at desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture in schools that values health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Schools that focus on the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness initiatives such as bullying prevention, nutrition education social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning could be linked to movement breaks.

Tips to Get Started

1. Begin slow: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Be regular. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. But, 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, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements do not require any equipment or simple objects like balls, scarves or music.

Incorporating movements into your school day is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for many reasons which include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behaviour. It is possible to invest in the future of your children, whether you're a teacher or administrator as well as a parent or politician.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of every student's educational experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, develop, and thrive.