Interdisciplinary Approaches: Movement and Math

The holistic development of the student is increasingly crucial in today's rapidly changing education system. While academic test scores and rigor are still important, increasing 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 commonplace, the need for a purposeful, organized physical activities during the school day has never been greater. In this article, we'll explore why movement breaks should be an integral part of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science of their benefits, and provide concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are movement breaks in the Schools?

Movement breaks--also called brain breaks, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short periods within the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. These breaks can range from short periods of stretching or dancing to more structured games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that involve movement. Contrary to the physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed program, the movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and refresh their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why movement breaks matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main motives to include movement breaks is their positive effects on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and teens should engage in at minimum 60 minutes of physical activity daily. However, many students fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Fighting childhood obesity

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

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

In contrast to the popular belief that more time spent in school leads to better grades, research has shown that taking a break during class can improve academic performance . Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that are crucial for cognitive functioning.

The most important benefits for academics include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• An increase in on-task behavior

The results of studies have shown that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater concentration and show higher achievement scores compared to those without such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for students of school age. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in helping to regulate emotions and well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins release to make you feel good
• Teamwork and social interaction

The physical activity you do during the day can help to release the tension, frustration or worry. This will create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

The Movement Breaks Help All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or any other specific needs may benefit from a break in their movement. Physical exercise can help students manage their energy levels, improve executive function, and help them better participate in academic tasks.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Breaks in the movement can easily be adapted to meet the requirements of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. The types of breaks offered be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They make sure that each child can succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially during long blocks of instruction.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are easy to do and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories or other themes that keep students entertained.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Develop policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and resources for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track the progress of the practice: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can either conduct video-based activities or provide students with movement-related tasks they can complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

Studies show that students who regularly move are more focused and productive in classes. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

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

You can include brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule, either to transition between topics or after an intense focus. Even short activities have obvious benefits.

"What is the best course to take if space is limited?"

Many activities that require only a little space, or can be performed standing beside desks. In small classrooms, seated yoga, stretches in a chair, or just simple hand and arm movements can be effective.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about building an environment that promotes well-being, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students with better health and less absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Academic results that are stronger

Other wellness initiatives such as bullying prevention, nutrition education social-emotional education, social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.

Start with these Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two break breaks per day and build from there.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Ask for Feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your achievement: Recognize classrooms that have participated with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools implement breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the frequency can be adjusted to suit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient moves require little or no equipment, such as scarves and music or balls.

Integrating breaks for movement throughout the school day can have a wide array of advantages. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for a variety of reasons, including improving academic performance and physical health as well as classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the future of our children's success.

Make movement an essential aspect of the school day for every student. Learners develop and prosper by moving.