Movement Breaks and Social Emotional Learning

In today's ever-changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall growth of students. The quality of their education and the scores they score remain important however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities 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 reasons why breaks for movement are an important part of every school day, the benefits they offer and give practical suggestions for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks at schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short periods within the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. These breaks can range from short periods of dancing or stretching to more formal games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require moving. The movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow an established curriculum, are often brief interruptions to classes that are sedentary. They can help students refocus their to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place over jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why it is important to break the movement of a person: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks on the health of a person is one of the main reasons to incorporate these breaks into your daily routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. But, many children do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent in class.

School-based movement breaks provide a number of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular movement also boosts the immune system, and also encourages the creation of long-term healthy routines.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the widely held belief that more time spent in school leads to better grades, research has shown that taking movement breaks during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen that are crucial for cognitive functioning.

Key academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• An increase in focus on task behavior

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of children who are in school. The importance of regular exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Teamwork and social interaction

Physical activity throughout the day can help to release pent up energy anger, stress or anxiety. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD, sensory processing issues or any other specific needs may benefit from movement breaks. Physical exercise can help students regulate their energy levels, improve executive function, and better perform in academic activities.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Movement breaks can easily be adapted to meet the needs of different types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. Movement breaks can range from simple chair stretches through interactive group exercises. They ensure that each child is able to thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially during long blocks of instruction.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require little equipment or preparation.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students engaged.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their favorite exercise.

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 resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Follow the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine practices.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Movement breaks are just as important. Teachers can conduct live activity sessions through video calls, or give movement-related challenges to students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the classroom?

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more productive and focused in classes. Breaks for movement are an investment into learning and not an interruption.

How can we fit in time to move when our schedules are jammed?

You can include short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine in order to switch between different topics or following intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which that we have available is not enough?

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed by standing in front of desks. In smaller classrooms, seated yoga, stretches in a chair, or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on the school culture

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about building the school's culture of health, well-being and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are enhanced
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness-related initiatives, like nutrition education, anti-bullying and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.

Tips to Get Started

1. Start slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the recommended frequency for schools to institute movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools should take a 30 minute break to walk around. However, the duration of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. Breaks in movement aren't a substitute for structured physical education. They are meant to enhance it.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most efficient moves require minimal or no equipment, such as scarves, music, or balls.

Incorporating breaks to move into the daily school routine can have a wide variety of benefits. The research shows that movement is important for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of each student's school experience. Because when students move they learn, develop, and thrive.