Best Practices for Safe Movement Breaks Indoors

In the current rapidly changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall growth of students. Academic rigor and test scores remain important, but a growing body of research has revealed a vital element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are becoming the commonplace. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a cornerstone of any school's daily routine, uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also called brain breaks break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short breaks during the school day during which students are encouraged to engage in physical activity. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Unlike the physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined program, the movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions to the sedentary classroom intended to boost students' energy and refresh their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the most compelling motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and teens should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. However, many students do not meet this requirement because of the long hours they spend in the classroom.

School-based movement breaks Provide a variety of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Support healthy weight management
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during classes can enhance academic performance . Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are essential to cognitive function.

The key academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

Research has shown that students who get breaks for movement return to their work with greater concentration and show better achievement scores than those without such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a matter that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for youngsters who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and encouraging mental health is well known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released to give you a feeling of happiness
• Social interaction and teamwork

Exercise during the school day provides an outlet for the accumulated tension, anger or anxiety, which can help to create a more positive classroom environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial for those with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing challenges, or with other disabilities. Physical activity can help students manage their energy levels, boost executive function, and better participate in academic tasks.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the needs of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. Breaks for movement can be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They ensure that each child can succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your daily routine

Teachers can profit from this toolkit

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during long instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think jumping, stretching or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related tasks they can finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

Studies show that students who move regularly are more productive and focused in class. Movement breaks are an Investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How can we create time for movement in an already packed schedule?"

Breaks for movement can be brief--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or during periods that require intense concentration. Even brief activity provides noticeable benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom isn't enough?"

Some exercises can be completed standing next to desks or in a small space. In small classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or simple arm and hand exercises can be beneficial.

The Greater Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about personal benefits, it's about creating an environment that promotes health, well-being and lifelong learning. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Students with better health and more absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are increased
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Higher academic performance

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

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start slow: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Be constant: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools have a 30-minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks can be altered in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements require no equipment or only simple items like scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating the benefits of movement into each school day is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior, the research is clear: movement matters. It is possible to invest in the future of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or politician.

Making movement a vital element of school life for every student. Learners develop and thrive by moving.