Movement Breaks: The Secret to Accelerated Learning
Incorporating Movement Breaks into the Classroom
Within our schools and classrooms, students spend much of their school day sitting at a desk or on a carpet. While structure is important for students to learn, research shows the importance of moving throughout the day. This can be done in a number of ways. As part of CrossTrain Kids, we have integrated different movement breaks within the lessons, allowing the teachers to easily incorporate them into their classroom routines. Additionally, we have compiled a list that is included in all three programs. This intentional approach aligns with research showing how critical movement is in children's development and learning.
What Does the Research Show?
Several studies have highlighted the role that physical movement plays in brain development, behavior, and overall academic performance. Short physical breaks throughout the day can improve attention, working memory, and overall behavior. Children who participate in regular movement perform better on tasks requiring executive functioning and problem solving skills.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has resources that show how physical activity can help reduce a child’s stress, anxiety, and behaviors while promoting a more positive classroom environment. Movement not only improves physical health but also improves social interactions and creativity, which are both essential to a well-rounded education. Movement breaks are not only beneficial for children but also for the adults who work with them..
The Impact of Movement Breaks
There are many impacts that movement breaks can have on students and their ability to learn. Some impacts include the following:
Emotional Wellness: When we move our bodies, we release endorphins which can help reduce stress and anxiety while improving our overall mood.
Physical Benefits: Movement can help counteract the effects of sitting while improving our posture, circulation and overall physical fitness.
Focus and Attention: Physical activity can stimulate blood flow to our brains which can lead to an increased alertness and concentration. This in turn can support attention and focus.
Behavior: Quick and frequent movement breaks can help children release energy while reducing fidgeting and off task behaviors. By incorporating movement into a student's day, you are being proactive in reducing the opportunity for disruptive and off-task behavior.
Academics: Research has also shown that children who engage in movement retain information better and can perform higher on cognitive tasks.
How Can Schools Incorporate Movement Breaks?
Incorporating movement breaks into the school day does not require significant changes or disruptions to the classroom. Here are some simple yet effective ways teachers can implement movement breaks:
Short Movement Breaks: Short, 2-3 minute activities such as jumping jacks, stretching, or yoga poses can quickly re-energize students.
Action-Based Breaks: Embed movement into your lessons, such as acting out stories, using gestures for certain vocabulary words, or standing while solving academic problems.
Dance or Music Breaks: A quick dance break or rhythmic clapping can provide an instant energy boost.
Walk and Talk: Allow your students to discuss class material while walking around the classroom or outside. Get creative in where you teach the content and how you teach it. Sometimes taking students outside on a sunny day can allow them to get fresh air, move their bodies, and get vitamin D.
Classroom Challenges: Use activities like a “Simon Says” or balance exercises to keep students engaged and active.
CrossTrain Kids Movement Breaks: Utilize the list that is provided by CrossTrain Kids throughout the school day proactively and as students need it.
Movement breaks are a simple yet powerful tool to enhance student learning, behavior, and overall well-being. By incorporating short movement activities throughout the school day, teachers can create a more engaging and productive learning environment. As research continues to show the benefits of movement, it is clear that active classrooms lead to happier, healthier, and more successful students. At CrossTrain Kids, we have a strong focus and passion for how movement can be maximized in schools and classrooms. Stay tuned for more insights on how you can integrate various tools such as walking paths, sensory paths, and in-classroom resources to enhance movement opportunities for students!
