Using Movement to Support Executive Function

In today's rapidly evolving education system The spotlight is now focused on the holistic growth of students. Test scores and academic rigor remain crucial however, a growing amount of research has revealed a vital element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as increased screen time become the commonplace, the need for purposeful, structured physical activities during the school day is never greater. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an important part of every school day, and the benefits they provide, and offer practical strategies for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Movement breaks--also called breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks are short periods within the school day where students are encouraged to engage in physical activity. The breaks may range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that require moving. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set schedule, these breaks are brief, regular interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refocus their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in the same
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks on the health of a person is among the strongest reasons for incorporating them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical movement each day. But, many children aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent sitting in classrooms.

School breaks during movement can provide a variety of health advantages:

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Support healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy lifestyles.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to popular belief that more time on academics will result in better performance, research shows that integrating breaks in movement can increase academic performance. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, providing nutrients and oxygen that are essential for the functioning of the brain.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Focus on the task is increased.

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

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a matter that is a concern for many students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many children of school age. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in helping to regulate emotions and well-being.

Emotional benefits include:

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

Physical activity during school day can provide an outlet for the accumulated anger, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive classroom environment.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial for students with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or problems with sensory processing or any other needs. These students will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of various age groups and physical abilities as well as learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities break breaks are designed to guarantee each student gets the chance to excel.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

For Teachers

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think stretching, jumping, or quick games.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling, or themes to keep students engaged.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide activity breaks confidently.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

The need for breaks during movement is equally crucial during virtual learning. Teachers can lead live activities via video calls or provide movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

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

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

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

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine in order to switch between different topics or following an intense focus. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

What happens if the space in which that we have available is not enough?

Some exercises can be completed standing next to desks or in a small space. In smaller classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on School Culture

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks into your school day; it's about creating a culture in schools that values health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are increased
• Greater teacher satisfaction and lower burnout rates
• More academically successful

Other wellness initiatives such as nutrition education, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning can be aligned with movement breaks.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Begin slow: Start with just two or three breaks per day.
2. Be constant: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to introduce movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools should take a 30 minute break for movement. But, the frequency of breaks can be adjusted depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to structured physical education. They are designed to enhance it.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating the benefits of movement into each school day is an easy method that is based on research and has a wide range of benefits. The research shows that movement is important for many reasons which include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behaviour. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or policymaker.

Make movement an essential aspect of the school day for every student. Students learn, develop and flourish when they move.