The Relationship Between Movement and Reading Comprehension

In the current rapidly changing educational environment the spotlight is focused on the holistic growth of students. The quality of their education and the scores they score remain crucial however, a growing body of research reveals a key aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom is more crucial than ever. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time are now the norm. This guide will discuss why movement breaks are an essential part of any school day, what benefits they provide, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also known as breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks -- are short periods within the school day when students are required to participate in physical activity. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching, to more formal games, exercises, or even mindfulness activities that involve movement. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed program, the movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions to sedentary classroom time intended to boost students' energy and refresh their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

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

Why it is important to break the movement of a person: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest 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 adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. Yet, many students aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time in the classroom.

Moving breaks in schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Help support healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and encourages the growth of healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and academic benefits

Contrary to the belief that spending more time in school will result in better performance, research shows that integrating breaks for movement can improve academic performance. Physical activity increases the circulation of blood to your brain. This delivers oxygen and nutrients essential for cognitive functioning.

The main academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• Increased the amount of time spent on task.

The results of studies have shown that students who are given breaks to move return to work more focused and have greater achievement scores when compared with those without such breaks.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is becoming a major concern with stress, anxiety and depression being a major issue for school-aged youngsters. Movement breaks play a significant role in helping to regulate emotions and well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released to create a positive feeling
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release the tension and stress. This will create an environment that is positive for students.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity in regulating their energy levels, increasing executive function and participating in academic tasks.

Create inclusive classrooms

Because movement breaks are easily adaptable they can be tailored to fit the needs of different ages physical capabilities, as well as learning methods. From simple chair stretches to interactive group activities movement breaks make sure that every student is able to excel.

Methods for incorporating movement into your workout Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 mins, especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as stretching, jumping, or quick games.
• Enjoy it! Make use of stories, music, or themes to get students involved.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead breaks with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect feedback and monitor results to improve practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is no different. Breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can either conduct video-based activities or provide students with movement-related challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

Research shows that students who regularly move are more focused and productive in class. Movement breaks are an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How do we find enough time to move in the midst of a busy schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes--and can be built into the transition between subjects or following periods of intense focus. Even short activities have obvious benefits.

"What if our classroom space is limited?"

Certain activities can be done sitting next to desks or in a tiny space. Seated stretches, chair yoga, or even simple hand and arm movements work well in small classrooms.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

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

• Students with healthier health and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are increased
• More satisfaction with the teacher and lower rates of burnout
• Academic results that are more impressive

Other wellness-related initiatives, like nutrition education, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.

Start by implementing these tips

1. Begin slow: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Receive feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who participate with enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce breaks for movement?

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be altered to meet the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it suitable for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements need no equipment, or just simple items like balls, scarves or music.

Integrating breaks for exercise into the daily school routine could provide a broad array of advantages. From improving academic performance and physical fitness to improving mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear: movement matters. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or a the policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is a way to invest in the next generation's success.

Making movement a vital aspect of the school day for all students. Students learn, grow and thrive by moving.