It is no secret that students spend the majority of their day at school sitting, whether it is sitting at their desk writing and working, or sitting on the carpet listening to their teacher. Students who sit still for extended periods of time may find it difficult to focus and may become disengaged. A great way for teachers to enhance student learning experience is by incorporating movement activities in the classroom, which can also be known as "movement breaks". Incorporating movement breaks within the classroom is a great way to get students to take a quick break in between lessons/classes, and re-energize before continuing their learning. All students can benefit from taking a movement break in class, especially those who struggle with poor concentration, constant fidgeting and mind wandering.
5 Benefits of Movement Breaks
1. Taking movement breaks improves learning.
Brain breaks enhance learning. According to research, the hippocampus performs better when there are brief gaps between repetitions of new information when creating long-term memories. Therefore, taking a movement break during class is an excellent method to retain new information.
Brain breaks enhance learning. According to research, the hippocampus performs better when there are brief gaps between repetitions of new information when creating long-term memories. Therefore, taking a movement break during class is an excellent method to retain new information.
2. Exercising brings more oxygen to the brain.
Exercise brings more oxygen to the brain, which is essential for focus and memory. Concentration and the capacity to retain new information are directly related to blood oxygen levels. Movement breaks are a great way to keep the oxygen flowing.
3. Movement breaks clear up bad habits.
When critical thinking abilities are required, learning will be more difficult for students if they are anxious or stressed. Students can control or minimize any stress or anxiety during brain breaks in the classroom. The breaks can help students clear their minds.
When critical thinking abilities are required, learning will be more difficult for students if they are anxious or stressed. Students can control or minimize any stress or anxiety during brain breaks in the classroom. The breaks can help students clear their minds.
4. Movement breaks provide a brief break.
Children can take mental and sensory breaks through movement. For students who struggle in the classroom due to sensory processing disorder, or other issues, this is especially important.
Children can take mental and sensory breaks through movement. For students who struggle in the classroom due to sensory processing disorder, or other issues, this is especially important.
5. Helps with Emotional Self-Regulation
Education and social relationships depend on self-regulation. Exercise generally benefits both children and adults' ability to control their emotions.
Here's a link that gives 20 quick and effective brain break ideas that can be used within a classroom!
Here are some YouTube videos that can be used to help guide the movement breaks, especially for those in primary/junior grades.
Courtesy of Michelle O @NU-OTECF
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