The Role of Movement Breaks in Reducing Bullying

The holistic development of the child is becoming increasingly important in the current rapidly evolving education system. 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 and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are becoming the commonplace. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule, uncover the science of their benefits, and provide concrete 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 during which students are motivated to engage in physical activity. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, or other structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

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

School-based movement breaks Provide a variety of health benefits

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system, and helps you maintain good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the common belief that more time spent in school leads to better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during classes can enhance academic performance . Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are crucial to cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• Increased on-task behavior

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more focused and score higher over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety, and depression plaguing many school-age children. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• A reduction in stress and anxiety.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and create a positive feeling
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical activity you do throughout the day can help to release pent up energy and stress. This will create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial to students suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and problems with sensory processing or any other needs. Students with these conditions can benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, enhancing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because movement breaks can be easily adapted, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different ages physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement make sure that each student gets the chance to succeed.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your day

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think running, jumping, or quick games.
• Make it enjoyable: Integrate music, storytelling or themes to keep students engaged.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to lead activities with confidence.
• Follow the progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine techniques.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally important in virtual learning. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks they can finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

However, research shows that students who move regularly are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How do we find the time to move during the midst of a busy schedule?"

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into interludes between subjects, or following periods that require intense concentration. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

What if the classroom space we have isn't enough?

Certain activities can be done at desks, or in a tiny space. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on the school culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about personal benefits, it's about creating a school culture that values wellbeing, health, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Students with better health and more absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are stronger

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs including social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and programs to combat bullying.

Start with these Tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two break breaks per day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep your students entertained.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the frequency can be altered to meet the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to structured exercise. They are meant to enhance it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective exercises require minimal or no equipment, like scarves, music, or balls.

Incorporating breaks to move throughout the school day can have a wide array of advantages. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for a myriad of reasons which include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or even a policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine is an investment in the next generation's success.

Include movement as an integral element of school life for all students. Students learn, develop and prosper by moving.