How Movement Breaks Help Students with ADHD

The holistic development of the student is increasingly crucial in today's rapidly changing education system. Test scores and academic rigor remain important however, a growing body of research has revealed a vital aspect that is often ignored: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom is more crucial than ever. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the standard. This guide will explore the reasons why breaks for movement are essential to every school day, the benefits they offer and provide practical tips for administrators and teachers.

What are the Movement Breaks in Schools?

Movement Breaks Also known as Brain Breaks, Activity breaks, or physical activity breaks are short breaks during school hours when students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can include stretching, dancing, more structured games or exercises, or mindfulness activities. Breaks for movement, in contrast to classes in physical education that adhere to the same curriculum, are frequently and short interruptions in the class's sedentary time. They aid in refocusing students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Stretching or yoga poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular movement breaks for health is among the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens get 60 minutes of regular physical activity. Yet, many students fall short of this recommendation due to long hours spent sitting in classrooms.

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

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Encourage healthy weight management
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system, and promotes healthy habits for life.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to popular belief that more time on academics can lead to better grades Research has shown that incorporating breaks in movement can improve the academic level. Physical activity boosts the flow of blood to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen that are crucial for the functioning of the brain.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• Focus on the task is increased.

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and score higher over those who don't.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental health of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety and depression affecting many school-age youngsters. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Endorphins are released and make you feel good
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the school hours provides an outlet for the accumulated tension, anger, or worry, helping to create a comfortable and positive environment in the classroom.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from movement breaks. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, enhancing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic assignments.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Because they can be easily adapted they can be tailored to fit the needs of various age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning style. From simple chair stretches to interactive group activities breaks in the form of movement ensure each student is able to succeed.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Create a schedule. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, and especially in lengthy instructional blocks.
• Make it simple. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require no equipment or preparation.
• Enjoy it! Use music, stories or themes to engage students.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their preferred movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or require these breaks.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Movement breaks are just as crucial during virtual learning. Teachers may facilitate video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related tasks to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

Are movement breaks time-wasters in the class?

Research shows that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in class. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create time for movement in the midst of a busy schedule?"

You can incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule in order to switch between topics or after intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

What if the classroom space that we have available is not enough?

Certain activities can be done at desks, or in a tiny space. In small classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or simple arm and hand movements can be effective.

The Greater Impact: Movement Breaks and School Culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about personal benefits, it's about fostering a school culture that values well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students with healthier health and lower absences
• A rekindled sense of school spirit and a stronger sense of community
• Greater satisfaction of teachers and lower burnout rates
• Academic results that are more impressive

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

Tips to Get Started

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day and build from there.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a routine part of your daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools start introducing movement breaks?

Experts suggest that schools have a 30-minute break for movement. However, the duration of breaks is adjustable depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. The movement breaks aren't an alternative to organized exercise. They are intended to enhance it.

Are movements appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective moves require little or no equipment, including scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every school day is an easy approach that has proven benefits. Research shows that exercise is essential for a myriad of reasons, including improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. It is possible to make a difference in the lives of your children, whether you're an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or policymaker.

Making movement a vital part of the school experience for every student. Students learn, grow and prosper by moving.