Music and Dance as Effective Movement Breaks

The holistic growth of the student is becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing educational environment. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain important, a growing body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more vital. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time is becoming the norm. In this article we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be an integral part of any school's daily routine as well as the scientific basis behind the benefits of these breaks, and present practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks in schools?

Motion breaks--also known as brain breaks, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day where students are motivated to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more structured games, exercises or mindfulness exercises which require movement. Movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow a curriculum, are frequent brief interruptions to sedentary class time. They aid in refocusing students to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping around or running in place Jacks
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive impact of physical activity breaks on health is one of the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens get 60 minutes of exercise. Many students do not meet this recommendation because they are occupied for too many hours in the classroom.

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

• Increase your cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Healthy weight loss: Encourage healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise improves your immune system, and helps you maintain lifestyle changes that are healthy for your future.

2. Advantages to the brain and education

Contrary to popular belief that spending more time in school will result in better performance, research shows that integrating movement breaks can actually enhance academic performance. Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This helps deliver nutrients and oxygen that are essential to brain function.

Key academic benefits include:

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

According to research that have been conducted, students who exercise during breaks are more concentrated and achieve higher scores than those who do not.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that concerns many students. Anxiety, stress and depression impact a lot of children who are in school. The importance of movement breaks in regulating emotions and encouraging mental well-being is well-known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction and teamwork

The physical activity you do during the day can help to let go of any tension, frustration or worry. This will create a positive classroom atmosphere.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial to students suffering from Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or sensory processing challenges, or other special needs. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, improving the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic activities.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to accommodate the needs of various age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretches to group-based activities that are interactive, breaks in the form of movement ensure each student is able to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly in long blocks of instruction.
• Simple. Choose routines that are easy to do and require little equipment or preparation.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, stories, or other themes that keep your students interested.
• Involve students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking movement breaks.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Monitor the progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine methods.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Movement breaks are just as important in virtual learning. Teachers can facilitate live activity sessions via video calls or assign movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

Studies show that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How can we fit in time to move when our schedule is so packed?

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can also be incorporated into interludes between subjects, or during periods of intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

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

Many movement activities require little space or are done standing beside desks. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even simple hand and arm movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of Movement Breaks on the school culture

It's not only about the individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about creating a culture in schools that is centered around wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Improved overall student health and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are enhanced
• Higher satisfaction of teachers and lower rates of burnout
• Academic results that are stronger

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

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two breaks during the day and build from there.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Ask for Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to start introducing movement breaks?

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

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Breaks in movement aren't an alternative to structured physical education. They are intended to complement it.

Are movements appropriate for all children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements do not require any equipment or simple items like balls, scarves or even music.

Integrating breaks to move throughout the school day can have a wide variety of benefits. From improving academic performance to improving physical health to supporting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom, the research is clear that movement is important. If you're a teacher administrator or parent, or a policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the next generation's success.

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