The Connection Between Movement and Memory

In today's rapidly evolving education system, the spotlight is increasingly focused on the holistic growth of students. 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. The need for organized active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time is becoming the standard. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be an integral part of every school's day-to-day schedule, uncover the science of their advantages, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also called breaks for the brain, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day during which students are required to participate in physical activities. The breaks may range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more organized games, exercises or mindfulness exercises which require movement. Unlike the physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and help them refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping around or running in place over jacks
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Light movement

Why Movement Breaks Matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is their positive effects on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents should participate in at minimum 60 minutes of physical activities each day. Yet, many students fall short of this recommendation due to long hours spent in class.

Breaks in school for movement can provide a variety of health benefits:

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and helps in 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 for movement can increase the academic level. Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are crucial for the functioning of the brain.

Its primary academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• More focused on-task behavior

The results of studies have shown that students who are given breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate greater achievement scores when compared with students who do not have such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

The mental health of students is an increasing concern with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. The importance of regular exercise in regulating emotions and encouraging mental health is widely known.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins release to make you feel good
• Opportunity for social interaction and collaboration

The physical exercise you engage in during the day can assist to release pent up energy and stress. This will create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Breaks during movement are particularly beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and difficulties with sensory processing, or any other needs. Physical activity can help students regulate their energy levels, enhance executive function, and better participate in academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the needs of different types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement guarantee every student is able to succeed.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

For Teachers

• Create a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during lengthy instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think jumping, stretching or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling or other themes that keep students entertained.
• Get students involved: Have students choose or lead their preferred movements.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Create guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require these breaks.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Movement breaks are just as important in virtual learning. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or assign students challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

However, research shows that students who move regularly are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. The breaks during movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create time for movement in the midst of a busy schedule?"

You can incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) in your daily routine in order to switch between subjects or to recover from an intense focus. Even a short activity can provide tangible benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom isn't enough?"

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed by standing in front of desks. In small classrooms, sitting yoga, stretches in a chair, or just simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not just about the personal benefits of having movement breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that is centered around wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that emphasize exercise are likely to have:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• Greater teacher satisfaction and lower rates of burnout
• Stronger academic outcomes

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

Tips to Get Started

1. Begin slowly: Start with just two or three breaks throughout the day.
2. Be constant: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools should take a 30 minute break to walk around. However, the duration of breaks is adjustable according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective exercises require minimal or no equipment, such as scarves, music, or balls.

Incorporating movements into your schoolday is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. The research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons which include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behaviour. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or even a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the success of the next generation.

Let's make moving a mandatory part of every student's school experience. Because when students move, they learn, grow and flourish.