The Role of Movement in Early Childhood Education

In today's ever-changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly shifting to the overall student's development. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. With sedentary classrooms and more screen time are becoming the standard, the demand for a purposeful, organized physical activity throughout the school day has never been greater. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science that explains their benefits, and provide practical 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 where students are encouraged engage with physical activity. The breaks may range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more formal games, exercises or mindfulness exercises that require moving. Movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education that adhere to an established curriculum, are often, short interruptions of sedentary class time. They aid in refocusing students to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping jacks
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

Why movement breaks matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main motives to include movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and teens should engage in at 60 minutes of exercise movement each day. But, many children do not meet this requirement because they are unable to spend enough time in class.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health benefits:

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Support healthy weight management
• Fighting childhood obesity

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

2. Benefits for the brain and education

In contrast to the popular belief that more time spent in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking breaks to move during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity increases the flow of blood to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen which are vital for cognitive functioning.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Increased focus and attention
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• More engagement and more participation
• An increase in on-task behavior

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more focused and score higher than those who do not.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental health of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. The importance of movement breaks in managing emotions and improving mental health is widely known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and teamwork

The physical exercise you engage in throughout the day can help to let go of any tension and stress. This can create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD, sensory processing issues or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. Physical activity can help students control their energy levels, improve executive function, and help them better take on academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because movement breaks are adaptable, they can be tailored to meet the needs of different age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. The types of breaks offered be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They ensure that each child can thrive.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your schedule

Teachers can profit from this resource

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in long instructional blocks.
• Simple. 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 get students involved.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Get support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Follow the progress: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine methods.

Learn online or via hybrid learning

Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers can lead live activities through video calls, or give movement-related challenges to students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the classroom?

Studies show that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. The breaks during movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

How do we find time to move when our schedules are jammed?

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into transitions between subjects or following periods of intense focus. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

What if the classroom space we have is limited?

Some activities can be performed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even simple hand and arm exercises work well in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: The Broader Impact:

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about individual benefits; it's about fostering a school culture that values wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that prioritize movement tend to experience:

• Students who are healthier and have less absences
• School spirit and community involvement are enhanced
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness initiatives like social-emotional education, nutrition education, or programs to combat bullying.

Tips to get started

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the recommended frequency for schools to institute breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools take a 30-minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. Breaks in movement aren't as a substitute for structured physical education. They are designed to supplement it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient exercises require no or little equipment, like scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating breaks for exercise into the daily school routine can provide a vast array of advantages. From improving academic performance and physical health to supporting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom The research proves that movement is important. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Let's make moving a mandatory element of every student's educational experience--because when students move, they learn, grow, and thrive.