Case Study: Movement Breaks in Urban Schools

The overall growth of the student is becoming more important in the rapidly changing education system. Test scores and academic rigor remain important however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more important. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time is becoming the norm. This guide will explore why movement breaks are an important part of every school day, what advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also called breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short periods within the school day during which students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, structured exercises or games, or mindfulness exercises. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are brief, regular interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Running in place
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main motives to include movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents should participate in at minimum 60 minutes of physical activity daily. However, many students do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent sitting in classrooms.

Breaks in school for movement provide numerous health advantages:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system, and promotes lifestyle changes that are healthy for your future.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the belief that spending more time in school will result in better performance studies show that integrating movement breaks can actually increase the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients that are vital for cognitive function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Focus on the task is increased.

Research has shown that students who are given movement breaks return to tasks with greater concentration and show higher achievement scores compared to those who don't get such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that concerns many students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for youngsters who are in school. The role of exercise in managing emotions and improving mental health is widely known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and teamwork

Physical activity during school day provides an opportunity to release any excess anger, frustration or anxiety, which can help to create a positive school environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. They benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, enhancing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Create inclusive classrooms

Since movement breaks are adaptable they can be tailored to fit the needs of different ages and physical abilities as well as learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities movement breaks guarantee every student gets the chance to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Simple. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require little equipment or preparation.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, stories, or themes to keep your students interested.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can lead 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 classroom?

Research shows that students who regularly move are more productive and focused in classes. The movement breaks are an Investment in learning, not distracting.

How can we fit in time to move when our schedule is so packed?

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or during time that require intense concentration. Even short activities can bring noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which we have isn't enough?

Many activities that require only a little space or can be done sitting at desks. Seated stretches, chair yoga or even simple hand and arm exercises can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the school culture

It's not just about personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture in schools that values well-being, health, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are boosted
• Greater satisfaction with the teacher and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness programs, such as bullying prevention, nutrition education, social-emotional training, and social-emotional learning can be incorporated into breaks for movement.

Tips to get started

1. Start small: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute movement breaks?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes, but the frequency can be adjusted to suit the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Is movement suitable for all ages of children?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements need no equipment, or just simple items like balls, scarves or music.

Incorporating breaks to move throughout the school day could provide a broad array of advantages. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for many reasons which include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing movement breaks can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.

Let's make moving a mandatory part of every student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move, they learn, grow, and thrive.