Improving Attendance with Movement-Focused Interventions

The holistic development of the student is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing educational environment. Test scores and academic rigor remain important however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital 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. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are becoming the norm. In this article we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science of the benefits of these breaks, and present concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks at schools?

Motion breaks--also called breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks -- are brief periods during the school day where students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Breaks for movement, in contrast to classes in physical education, which follow the same curriculum, are frequently, short interruptions of sedentary class time. They can help students refocus their to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in place or jumping jacks
• 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 effect of regular movement breaks for the health of a person is among the strongest reasons for incorporating them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and teens should engage in at minimum 60 minutes of physical movement each day. Yet, many students do not meet this requirement due to long hours spent in the classroom.

School-based movement breaks provide a number of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system and helps in the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the common belief that spending more time in school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking a break during class can improve the academic level of students . Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen which are vital to cognitive function.

Key academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• A greater focus on the task

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and score higher over those who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is an increasing concern with anxiety, stress, and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. The movement breaks play an important part in promoting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Teamwork and social interaction

Exercise during the school day provides an opportunity to release any excess anger, frustration, or worry, helping to create a more positive school environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing challenges, or with other disabilities. They benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic activities.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the needs of various age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple stretches on the chair to group-based activities that are interactive, break breaks are designed to ensure that every child has the opportunity to excel.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during lengthy instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are easy to do and require little equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it! Make use of stories, music or themes to engage students.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. The breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks they can complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

However research has shown that students who move regularly are more focused, less disruptive and more productive during lessons. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How can we fit in the time needed to move, when our schedules are so jam-packed?

It is possible to incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine for transitions between topics or after intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide significant benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom isn't enough?"

Some activities can be performed standing next to desks or in a tiny space. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of The Broader Impact:

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about personal benefits, it's about fostering the school's culture of health, well-being and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that emphasize movement tend to experience:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• School spirit and community involvement are increased
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are stronger

Movement breaks can also align with other wellness programs including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, or anti-bullying programs.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day and build from there.
2. Be consistent. Include movement in 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 achievement: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to introduce movement breaks?

Experts suggest schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. However, the frequency of breaks can be altered in accordance with the needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Is movement appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Movement breaks can be tailored to preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple method that is based on research and has a wide range of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health, to promoting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior The research proves that movement is crucial. You can make a difference in the lives of your children, whether you're a teacher or administrator as well as a parent or politician.

Let's make it a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience--because when students move they learn, develop, and thrive.