How Movement Breaks Can Support Trauma-Informed Classrooms

The overall growth of the student is increasingly crucial in the rapidly changing education system. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body of research reveals an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. With sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time becomes the norm, the need for purposeful, structured physical activity during the school day has never been more urgent. This guide will explain the reason why break time is essential to every school day, the benefits they provide and give practical suggestions for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in Schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks activities breaks, brain breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short periods within the school day when students are motivated to engage in physical activities. They can be anything from short periods of stretching or dancing to more structured exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities that involve movement. In contrast to physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to re-energize students and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Running in place or jumping Jacks
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children get 60 minutes of regular physical activity. Many students do not comply with this requirement due to the fact that they spend so many hours in class.

Movement Breaks in Schools Offer Several Health Benefits

• Increase fitness levels for your cardiovascular system
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Support healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves the immune system, and also encourages the development of lifelong healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school will result in higher scores, research has proven that taking movement breaks during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This helps deliver nutrients and oxygen that are essential to brain function.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Attention and focus can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• More focused on-task behavior

According to studies that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more concentrated and have higher scores than students who don't.

3. Well-being of the Mind and Emotions

Mental health is a matter that is a concern for many students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for students who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is well known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins release to make you feel good
• Opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the day can assist to release the tension and stress. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students with ADHD, sensory processing issues or other special needs can benefit from breaks in movement. They can benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, improving executive function and participating in academic assignments.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Since movement breaks are adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of different ages and physical abilities as well as learning style. The types of breaks offered vary from simple stretches on the chair all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They ensure that every student is able to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement 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.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling or other themes that keep your students interested.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Establish guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide activity breaks confidently.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Breaks for movement are equally essential during online learning. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or assign students tasks to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the class?

Research has shown that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. The movement breaks are an Investment into learning and not distracting.

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

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into transitions between subjects or during periods that require intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide significant advantages.

What happens if the space in which we have isn't enough?

Many activities that require only a little space or can be done standing beside desks. Stretching in a chair, sitting or even basic hand and arm exercises can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about individual benefits; it's about creating a school culture that values wellbeing, health, and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students with better health and lower absences
• School spirit and community involvement are enhanced
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• Academic results that are more impressive

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness activities including social-emotional learning, nutrition education, or anti-bullying programs.

Tips to Get Started

1. Begin slow: Start with just two or three breaks per day.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Experts suggest that schools have a 30-minute break to move around. However, the duration of breaks is adjustable according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Absolutely not. The movement breaks aren't an alternative to organized physical education. They are intended to supplement it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! The timing of breaks for movement can be customized to preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements need no equipment, or just basic items such as scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating breaks for movement into the daily school routine can provide a vast range of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical health to supporting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior The research proves that movement is crucial. No matter if you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing movement breaks is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Make movement an essential part of the school experience for all students. Students learn, grow and prosper when they move.