Outdoor Learning and Movement Breaks

In today's ever-changing educational environment the spotlight is turning to the holistic student's development. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain important, a growing body research highlights an element which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. With sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time becomes the norm, the need for structured, purposeful physical activity throughout the school day has never been more urgent. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's day-to-day schedule and uncover the science behind their benefits, and provide actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in the Schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks are short breaks during school hours when students are encouraged to engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from short periods of dancing or stretching to more organized games, exercises, or even mindfulness activities which require movement. Movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education that adhere to an established curriculum, are often, short interruptions of the class's sedentary time. They help refocus students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of movement breaks

• In place running or jumping Jacks
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks for the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents get 60 minutes of regular physical activity. But, many children aren't meeting this standard because of the long hours they spend in class.

School-based movement breaks Provide a variety of health benefits

• Increase the cardiovascular fitness
• Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
• Support healthy weight management
• Combating childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system, and also encourages the development of lifelong 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 breaks to move in class can boost the academic level of students . Exercise increases the flow of blood to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

The most important academic benefits are:

• 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 focused and achieve higher scores than students who don't.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression affect many students who are in school. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in supporting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and make you feel good
• Teamwork and social interaction

Physical activity during school day provides an outlet for the accumulated tension, anger, or worry, helping to create a positive school environment.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from breaks in movement. These students will benefit from exercise in regulating their energy levels, enhancing executive function and participating in academic activities.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Because movement breaks are adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to meet the needs of different age groups, physical abilities, and learning methods. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities, breaks in the form of movement make sure that each student is able to excel.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think stretching, jumping or playing games in a short time.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, stories, or themes to keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead activity breaks confidently.
• Monitor progress: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Breaks for movement are equally important in virtual learning. Teachers can lead video-based activity sessions or assign students tasks they can finish at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the classroom?

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

How can we fit in the time to move if our schedule is so packed?

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

"What do we do if our classroom is limited?"

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space or can be done sitting at desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic hand and arm exercises are effective in small classrooms.

The Broader Impact: The Broader Impact:

It's not just about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks, but also about creating a culture in schools that is centered around wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that prioritize movement tend to experience:

• Students who are healthier and have less absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Higher teacher satisfaction and lower burnout rates
• Higher academic performance

Other wellness programs, such as education on nutrition, anti-bullying, social-emotional training, and social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two breaks during the day and build from there.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Get creative: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement movement breaks?

Experts suggest schools have a 30-minute break for movement. However, the duration of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to--not a replacement for--structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement need no equipment, or just basic items such as scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating movement breaks into every school day is a simple approach that has proven benefits. The research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons that include improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behavior. You can make a difference in the lives of your children, whether you're a teacher or administrator, a parent or a politician.

Let's make it a non-negotiable element of each student's school experience. Because when students move they learn, improve, and thrive.