Teacher Self-Care: Move with Your Students

In today's ever-changing educational environment the spotlight is shifting to the overall development of students. While academic test scores and rigor are still important, increasing body of research reveals an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the standard. In this guide we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be a key element of any school's daily routine as well as the scientific basis behind their advantages, and offer actionable strategies for educators 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 the school day where students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more organized exercises, games or mindfulness exercises that involve moving. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions to the sedentary classroom intended to boost students' energy and help them refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping over jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest motives to include movement breaks is their positive impact on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the 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 so many hours in class.

Movement breaks in schools can provide a variety of health advantages:

• Increase the cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Help with weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the belief that spending more time in school will result in better performance Research has shown that incorporating movement breaks can actually increase academic performance. Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients which are vital for cognitive functioning.

Key academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• More focused on-task behavior

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more concentrated and have higher scores over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a matter that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of youngsters who are in school. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

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

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

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or problems with sensory processing or any other needs. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, improving their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Since movement breaks can be easily adapted and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of various age groups and physical abilities as well as learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities, movement breaks make sure that each student is able to thrive.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in long instructional blocks.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require little equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it! Make use of stories, music or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Establish policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• 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 isn't any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can lead video-based activity sessions or assign students tasks they can do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Research has shown that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in classes. The breaks during movement are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How do we make the time to move if our schedule is so packed?

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into the transition between subjects or during times that require intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide noticeable benefits.

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

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In small classrooms, sitting yoga, stretches in a chair, or even simple hand and arm movements can be effective.

The impact of movement breaks on School Culture

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about creating an environment that promotes wellbeing, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to experience:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• More academically successful

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness programs including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, or programs that combat bullying.

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and increase it from there.
2. Be regular: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Experts recommend that schools take a 30-minute break to move around. But, the duration of breaks can be altered depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movements suitable for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements do not require any equipment or simple items like balls, scarves or even music.

Integrating breaks for exercise throughout the school day can have a wide array of advantages. The research suggests that movement is important for a variety of reasons which include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behaviour. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Include movement as an integral element of school life for all students. Students learn, grow and flourish by moving.