Using Art and Movement Together

The overall development of the child is becoming increasingly important in the rapidly changing educational landscape. Academic rigor and test scores remain crucial however, a growing amount of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for structured, purposeful physical activity throughout the school day is never more urgent. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an essential part of any school day, what benefits they provide, 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 school hours when students are encouraged to participate in physical activities. The breaks may range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more structured games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that involve movement. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed curriculum, movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping around or running in place over jacks
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. Many students do not comply with this requirement because they are occupied for long hours in school.

Movement Breaks in Schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Help with weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system, and encourages healthy habits for life.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school leads to better grades, research has shown that taking a break during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are essential to cognitive function.

The key academic benefits are:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Increased on-task behavior

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and have higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is an increasing concern with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged children. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can assist to let go of any tension and stress. This can create an environment that is positive for students.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or other special needs. Physical activity can help students regulate their energy levels, boost executive function, and better perform in academic activities.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Because movement breaks are easily adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the needs of different age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities, breaks in the form of movement make sure that each student gets the chance to thrive.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think jumping, stretching or playing games in a short time.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep your students interested.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Follow the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine techniques.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activities on video calls or give movement-related challenges to students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

However research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The movement breaks are an Investment in learning, not a distraction.

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

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into transitions between subjects or during times of intense focus. Even short activities have obvious benefits.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

Certain activities can be done standing next to desks or in a smaller space. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or just simple hand and arm moves can be very effective.

The Greater Impact: The Broader Impact:

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks; it's also about creating a culture in schools that values wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Students with healthier health and lower absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• Greater teacher satisfaction and lower burnout rates
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness programs, such as nutrition education, anti-bullying and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional-learning could be linked to the breaks in your exercise.

Tips to Get Started

1. Start slow: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools take a 30-minute break for movement. But, the duration of breaks is adjustable depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just simple objects like scarves, balls, or music.

Integrating breaks for movement into each school day could provide a broad range of benefits. From improving academic performance to improving physical health, to promoting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior It's clear from the research: movement matters. You can invest in the future of your students whether you're a teacher or administrator, a parent or a politician.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for every student. Learners grow and thrive when they move.