Movement Breaks in After-School Programs

The holistic growth of the student is increasingly crucial in today's rapidly changing education system. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests are still important, increasing body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as increasing screen time becomes the standard, the demand for a purposeful, organized physical activities during the school day has never been greater. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an essential part of any school day, the advantages they bring and give practical suggestions 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 periods during school hours when students are encouraged engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises which require movement. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the most compelling reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical movement each day. Many students do not adhere to this advice due to the fact that they spend long hours in school.

School breaks during movement offer several health benefits:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system and promotes healthy habits for life.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time studying can lead to better grades, research shows that integrating movement breaks can actually enhance academic performance. Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients which are vital for cognitive functioning.

The most important academic benefits include:

• Improved attention and focus
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Focus on the task is increased.

According to studies, students who take movement breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores than students who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety, and depression plaguing many school-age youngsters. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released to make you feel good
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

Physical activity during the day can help to release pent up energy, frustration or worry. This creates positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. They can benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

The movement breaks can easily be adapted to accommodate the needs of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. Breaks for movement can vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They ensure that every student is able to thrive.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during long instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require no equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories, or themes to entice students.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families on the benefits of movement breaks.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Movement breaks are just as important in virtual learning. Teachers can facilitate live activities via video calls or provide movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

Research shows that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in class. Movement breaks can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How do we make the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

You can incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine, either to transition between subjects or to recover from intense concentration. Even short activities can bring tangible advantages.

What if the classroom space that we have available is not enough?

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space or are done standing beside desks. In small classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or simple arm and hand moves can be very effective.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on the school culture

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that values health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Higher academic performance

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness programs, such as social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and anti-bullying programs.

Start with these Tips

1. Begin slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant. Include movement in your routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to introduce movement breaks?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes, but the timing can be adjusted to suit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are exercise breaks suitable for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient moves require no or little equipment, like scarves, music, or balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical fitness to improving mental well-being and classroom behavior The research proves that movement is important. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine is a way to invest in the next generation's success.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for all students. Students learn, develop and prosper when they move.