Building Movement Breaks into IEPs

The overall development of the child is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing educational environment. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activity during the school day is never greater. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be an integral part of any school's daily routine as well as the scientific basis that explains the benefits of these breaks, and present concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in Schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or physical activity breaks, are short periods during school hours when students are encouraged engage with physical activity. The breaks may range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more structured exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities that involve movements. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed program, the movement breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and refresh their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive effects on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children take part in 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Many students do not adhere to this advice due to the fact that they spend too many hours in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Offer Several Health Benefits

• Improve your the cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Healthy weight loss: Encourage healthy weight loss
• Help fight childhood obesity

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system and promotes good habits that last for a lifetime.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time studying will result in better performance Research has shown that incorporating movement breaks can actually enhance the academic level. Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

The most important academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Focus on the task is increased.

According to studies the students who have movement breaks are more concentrated and have higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for children who are in school. The movement breaks play an important role in supporting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

Exercise during the school hours provides a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive classroom environment.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or problems with sensory processing or other special needs. They will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, increasing executive function and participating in academic activities.

Designing inclusive classrooms

The movement breaks can easily be adapted to accommodate the needs of different levels of ability, age groups and learning styles. Breaks for movement can vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They make sure that each student is able to thrive.

How to incorporate movement breaks into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as stretching, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and family members about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Develop guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide breaks with confidence.
• Follow the progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activities via video calls or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

Studies show that students who regularly move are more focused and productive in class. The breaks during movement are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How do we find time for movement in a packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes--and can be built into interludes between subjects, or following time of intense focus. Even short activities have obvious advantages.

What if the classroom space we have is limited?

Some exercises can be completed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic arm and hand movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Impact of The Broader Impact:

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about personal benefits, it's about fostering the school's culture of wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Higher satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
• Stronger academic outcomes

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

Start with these Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools start introducing movement breaks?

Experts suggest that schools have a 30-minute break to move around. But, the duration of breaks can be altered depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement do not require any equipment or simple items like scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating breaks for movement throughout the school day could provide a broad range of benefits. The research shows that movement is important for a myriad of reasons that include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behavior. No matter if you're a teacher administrator or parent, or even a policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Making movement a vital aspect of the school day for all students. Students learn, develop and flourish when they move.