Movement Breaks and Social Emotional Learning

The holistic development of the child is increasingly crucial in the rapidly changing educational landscape. 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 and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the norm. This guide will explore the reasons why breaks for movement are an important part of every school day, and the benefits they provide, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or physical activity breaks, are short breaks during school hours when students are encouraged to participate in physical activities. They can be a time for stretching, dancing, more structured exercises or games, or mindfulness activities. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are brief, regular interruptions to the sedentary classroom designed to re-energize students and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place Jacks
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks on the health of a person is one of the strongest reasons for incorporating them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and teens should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. A majority of students fail to comply with this requirement because they spend long hours in school.

Movement breaks in schools offer several health advantages:

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

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and helps in the growth of healthy habits.

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

Contrary to the widely held belief that spending more time in school will result in higher scores, research has proven that taking a break during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are essential for cognitive functioning.

The key academic benefits are:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Increased focus on task behavior

Research has shown that students who are given breaks to move return to work more focused and have greater achievement scores when compared with those without such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety and depression plaguing many school-age youngsters. The role of exercise in managing emotions and improving mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional benefits include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to let go of any tension, frustration or worry. This will create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise by regulating their energy levels, enhancing their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Because they are easily adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of various age groups and physical abilities as well as learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities movement breaks guarantee each student is able to thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories, or themes to get students involved.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movements.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. The breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activities through video calls, or give movement-related challenges to students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the class?

However, research shows that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create enough time to move in an already packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or after periods that require intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide significant advantages.

"What is the best course to take if space isn't enough?"

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space, or can be performed standing beside desks. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even simple hand and arm exercises work well in small classrooms.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on School Culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about creating the school's culture of wellbeing, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students with better health and more absences
• School spirit and community involvement are enhanced
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness activities like social-emotional education, nutrition education, or anti-bullying programs.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Be regular: Make movement a routine part of your 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 success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

Experts recommend that schools should take a 30 minute break to move around. However, the frequency of breaks is adjustable according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Movement breaks are not as a substitute for organized physical education. They are designed to complement it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective moves require no or little equipment, including scarves or music, or even balls.

Incorporating movements into your school day is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching advantages. From improving academic performance to improving physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear that movement is crucial. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher or parent, or even a politician.

Making movement a vital aspect of the school day for every student. Learners develop and thrive by moving.