Movement Breaks in Special Education: Adaptations and Benefits

The holistic growth of the student is becoming more important in the rapidly changing education system. Test scores and academic rigor are important however, a growing body of research reveals a key aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activities during the school day has never been more important. This guide will explain the reason why break time is an essential part of any school day, the benefits they offer and provide practical tips for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks break, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. These breaks may include stretching, dancing, more organized games, exercises or mindfulness-based activities. In contrast to physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to re-energize students and refresh their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Running in place
• Yoga or stretching 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 most compelling reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is their positive impact on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children get 60 minutes of exercise. However, many students do not meet this requirement because of the long hours they spend in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

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

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking movement breaks in class can boost the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are crucial for the functioning of the brain.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Increased focus on task

The results of studies have shown that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate greater achievement scores when compared with those who don't get such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is an increasing concern with stress, anxiety, and depression plaguing many school-age children. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released to give you a feeling of happiness
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to let go of any tension and stress. This creates an environment that is positive for students.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD or sensory processing problems or other special needs can benefit from breaks in movement. These students can benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, increasing executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Breaks in the movement can easily be adapted to meet the requirements of different levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities, movement breaks ensure each student gets the chance to excel.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, stories or other themes that keep students engaged.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movement activities.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to lead activities with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Breaks for movement are equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can lead live activities through video calls, or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

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

How do we make the time needed to move, when our schedule is so packed?

You can include short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your routine in order to switch between different topics or following an intense focus. Even a short activity can provide noticeable benefits.

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

Many activities that require only a little space or are done by standing in front of desks. In small classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about creating the school's culture of health, well-being, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and less absences
• School spirit and community involvement are increased
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• More academically successful

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness programs like social-emotional education, nutrition education, and anti-bullying programs.

Tips to Get Started

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input 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 implement movement breaks?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be altered to meet the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Breaks for movement can be adapted for elementary school children, preschoolers middle, high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most efficient movements require no or little equipment, including scarves or music, or even balls.

Incorporating movements into your schoolday is a simple method that is based on research and has a wide range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear that movement is crucial. No matter if you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing movement breaks can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable part of every student's school experience--because when students move they learn, improve and flourish.