Addressing Parent Concerns about Movement in Class

In today's ever-changing educational landscape, the spotlight is increasingly focused on the holistic growth of students. Academic rigor and test scores are important however, a growing body of research reveals a key aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the standard. In this article we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of any school's daily routine as well as the scientific basis behind their benefits, and provide practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged to participate with physical activity. The breaks may range from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more formal exercises, games or even mindfulness-based activities that require movements. Movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow the same curriculum, are frequently, short interruptions of classes that are sedentary. They help refocus students in their minds and help them reenergize.

Examples of movement breaks

• In place running or jumping over jacks
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks on the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate them into your routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and teens should engage in at 60 minutes of exercise activity daily. But, many children fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.

School breaks during movement provide numerous health benefits:

• Enhance fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Support healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the belief that spending more time studying can lead to better grades, research shows that integrating breaks in movement can enhance the academic level. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This delivers nutrients and oxygen that are essential to cognitive function.

The most important benefits for academics include:

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

Research has shown that students who receive breaks to move return to work more focused and have higher achievement scores compared to students who do not have such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of children of school age. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

Physical activity during the day can assist to release the tension and stress. This can create an environment that is positive for students.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. Physical exercise can help students regulate their energy levels, enhance their executive functioning, and enable them to better take on academic tasks.

Creating Inclusive Classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted they can be tailored to meet the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning styles. Breaks for movement can vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They make sure that each child can thrive.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your schedule

Teachers can profit from this toolkit

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as jumping, stretching or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories, or themes to engage students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking movement breaks.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide breaks with confidence.
• Track the progress: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve methods.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Movement breaks are equally important. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement challenges to finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the class?

Contrary to popular belief, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The breaks during movement are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we find time for movement in the midst of a busy schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into interludes between subjects, or following periods of intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

"What is the best course to take if space isn't 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 just simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on School Culture

It's not only about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that values well-being, health, and lifelong education. Schools that emphasize the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• School spirit and community involvement are enhanced
• More satisfaction of teachers and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness activities like social-emotional education as well as nutrition education and programs that combat bullying.

Start with these Tips

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools take a 30-minute break to walk around. However, the duration of breaks is adjustable in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to regular physical education. They are intended to supplement it.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most effective moves require little or no equipment, such as scarves and music or balls.

Integrating breaks for movement into each school day could provide a broad range of benefits. Research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons which include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing movement breaks can be a significant investment in the next generation's success.

Let's make moving a mandatory part of every student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move, they learn, grow and flourish.