Best Movement Break Apps for Teachers

The holistic development of the child is becoming more important in today's rapidly changing educational environment. 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. With sedentary classrooms and more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for purposeful, structured physical activity throughout the school day is never greater. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a cornerstone of every school's day-to-day schedule as well as the scientific basis behind the benefits of these breaks, and present actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks activities breaks, brain breaks, or physical activity breaks--are brief periods during the school day during which students are required to participate in physical activity. The breaks may range from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more structured exercises, games or mindfulness exercises which require movements. Movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow a curriculum, are frequent brief interruptions to the class's sedentary time. They help refocus students to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running in the same
• 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

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents get 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Yet, many students fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time in class.

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

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise improves your immune system, and promotes good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that more time spent in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking movement breaks during classes can enhance academic performance . Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, providing nutrients and oxygen which are vital for cognitive functioning.

Key academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• More focused on-task behavior

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more focused and achieve higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many youngsters of school age. The importance of regular exercise in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional benefits include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released to give you a feeling of happiness
• Social interaction and teamwork

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release the tension anger, stress or anxiety. This can create an environment that is positive for students.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. These students can benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic activities.

Create inclusive classrooms

Because movement breaks are adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning methods. From simple chair stretches to group-based activities that are interactive, movement breaks ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

For Teachers

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require little equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it: Make use of stories, music or themes to get students involved.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create guidelines: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct activity breaks in a confident manner.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers may lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the class?

Research shows that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not distracting.

How do we find the time to move if our schedules are so jam-packed?

You can incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule for transitions between topics or after an intense focus. Even brief activity provides 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 done by standing in front of desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the school culture

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about creating a culture in schools that is centered around well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Academic results that are more impressive

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs like social-emotional education, nutrition education, or programs that combat bullying.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools should take a 30 minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks can be adjusted 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.

Is it appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. From improving academic performance to improving physical health to supporting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior, the research is clear that movement is important. It is possible to invest in the future of your students whether you are a teacher or administrator or parent, or even a policymaker.

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