Using Movement to Support Executive Function

The overall development of the child is becoming more important in today's rapidly changing education system. The quality of their education and the scores they score remain crucial however, a growing body of research highlights a crucial aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. As sedentary classroom routines and more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activity throughout the school day is never greater. This guide will explain why movement breaks are essential to every school day, and the advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks at 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 with physical activity. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises. Unlike the physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why it is important to break the movement of a person: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is their positive effects on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents engage in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. A majority of students fail to meet this recommendation due to the fact that they spend too many hours in the classroom.

Breaks in school for movement offer several health benefits:

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

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

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to the common belief that more time spent in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking movement breaks during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, providing oxygen and nutrients that are essential to cognitive function.

Key academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Increased the amount of time spent on task.

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

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental health of children is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety, and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. The importance of regular exercise in managing emotions and improving mental health is widely known.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and create a positive feeling
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can help to let go of any tension and stress. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD or sensory processing problems or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. Physical activity can help students regulate their energy levels, boost their executive functioning, and enable them to better take on academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Breaks in the movement are easily modified to accommodate the needs of various levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement ensure each student has the opportunity to thrive.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in long blocks of instruction.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are easy to do and require no equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories or themes to entice students.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking movement breaks.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can facilitate video-based activity sessions or assign students tasks they can do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the classroom?

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more productive and focused in class. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create the time to move during the midst of a busy schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into transitions between subjects or during times of intense focus. Even a short activity can provide significant benefits.

"What is the best course to take if space is limited?"

Some exercises can be completed sitting next to desks or in a tiny space. 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 the School Culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about the individual benefit; it's about creating a school culture that values well-being, health, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that emphasize exercise are likely to have:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• More satisfaction of teachers and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness activities, such as social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and programs that combat bullying.

Tips to get started

1. Begin slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Ask for Feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to start introducing breaks for movement?

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes, but the frequency can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just simple items like scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating breaks for movement into each school day could provide a broad range of benefits. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behaviour. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher, a parent or a politician.

Let's make it a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Why? Because when kids move, they learn, grow and flourish.