Using Art and Movement Together

In the current rapidly changing education system The spotlight is now focused on the holistic growth of students. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more important. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time is becoming the norm. This guide will discuss the reason why break time is essential to every school day, what advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are short breaks during school hours when students are encouraged to engage with physical activity. They can be a time for dancing, stretching, or other structured games or exercises, or mindfulness exercises. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time intended to boost students' energy and refocus their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in the same
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily movement breaks on health is among the most compelling reasons for including them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children get 60 minutes of exercise. A lot of students don't meet this recommendation due to the fact that they spend too many hours in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools provide a number of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Healthy weight loss: Encourage healthy weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

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

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to the belief that more time on academics will result in better performance studies show that integrating breaks for movement can enhance academic performance. Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• An increase in focus on task behavior

Research has shown that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate better achievement scores than students who do not have such breaks.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental health 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 health is widely known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

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

Physical activity during the school day can provide an outlet for the accumulated energy, frustration, or worry, helping to create a more positive school environment.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise by regulating their energy levels, improving the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic activities.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Since movement breaks are easily adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the requirements of different age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to group-based activities that are interactive, movement breaks ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as jumping, stretching, or quick games.
• Enjoy it: Make use of stories, music, or themes to engage students.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking movement breaks.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct activity breaks confidently.
• Track the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Breaks for movement are equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can facilitate video-based activity sessions or assign students tasks they can complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Studies show that students who regularly move are more productive and focused in classes. Movement breaks are an investment into learning and not an interruption.

"How can we create time for movement in an already packed schedule?"

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your routine for transitions between topics or after an intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

Many movement activities require little space, or can be performed by standing in front of desks. In small classrooms, sitting yoga, stretches in a chair, or simple arm and hand exercises can be beneficial.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on School Culture

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about building an environment that promotes health, well-being and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize exercise are likely to have:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Higher satisfaction of teachers and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness programs, such as social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start slow: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Be constant: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Get feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be adjusted to suit the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. The movement breaks aren't a substitute for structured exercise. They are meant to enhance it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Integrating breaks for exercise into each school day can provide a vast array of advantages. The research shows that exercise is essential for many reasons that include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behaviour. You can invest in the future of your students, whether you are a teacher or administrator, a parent or a policymaker.

Making movement a vital part of the school experience for every student. Learners grow and thrive by moving.