Integrating Movement Breaks in the Classroom

What are movement breaks?

Movement breaks are short "time out" periods where children and young people engage in a form of physical activity, helping them release excess energy and regain focus in school. Integrating movement into the school day can lead to improved concentration, positive behaviour, and improved performance in the classroom.

What are the benefits of movement breaks in school?

Movement breaks are especially beneficial in a whole-class approach, providing numerous advantages for your pupils, including:

Enhanced focus

Physical activity is known to increase blood flow to the brain, which enables you to concentrate better on the activity or task.

An overall improvement behaviour

Integrating regular movement breaks helps to ease restlessness and minimise disruptive behaviours, creating a better environment for all learners.

Atmosphere and wellbeing

Physical activity releases endorphins that boost mood, reduce stress, and help pupils feel ready to engage in learning.

Participation and engagement

Movement breaks can make the classroom experience more engaging and enjoyable, promoting pupil participation.

Physical and mental health benefits

Regular breaks throughout the day will support pupils' overall physical and mental wellbeing, including strength and resilience.

Top tips for encouraging and supporting movement breaks

Are you unsure where to start? Here's our five top tips for integrating movement into learning, when and where to do them, and how to build movement-friendly environments:

Take regular breaks

Scheduling movement breaks at regular intervals throughout the day can create an efficient routine that young people can benefit from. For example, scheduling a 5-minute movement break after every activities  can help maintain focus and energy levels.

Use engaging activities

Implementing activities that are enjoyable and engaging for pupils. Simple exercises such as jumping jacks, stretching, or quick dance routines can make movement breaks fun and something pupils look forward to. Consider varying the activities to keep them fresh and exciting.

Integrate movement into learning

Combine physical activities with learning strategies to create movement-based learning experiences. For instance, games such as, Simon Says can strengthen vocabulary or completing a set number of jumps or squats to solve maths problems.

Encourage participation

Allow pupils to take an active role in leading movement breaks. Rotate leadership roles so that different pupils can choose activities or lead the class in exercises. This not only promotes physical activity but also encourages a sense responsibility.

Movement-friendly environments

Arrange classroom furniture to allow space for activities and consider flexible seating options like wobble cushions, rocking chairs, or standing desks. These adjustments provide pupils with more opportunities for movement during the day.

Implementing a whole-class approach

A whole-class approach to movement breaks ensures that all young people benefit from the integration of physical activity in the classroom. Here are some additional strategies for implementing this approach:

Using trusted resources

Professionals can support the successful integration of movement breaks by consulting reliable resources or external professionals, ensuring these breaks align with the classroom routine and curriculum.

Monitor and adjust

Movement breaks should be assessed regularly. It is important that the break is meeting the needs of the young person. Adjusting the duration, activity or frequency can be beneficial for pupils if the current break isn’t meeting their needs.

Promote inclusivity

Ensure that movement break activities are inclusive and accessible to all pupils, regardless of their physical abilities. Offer a variety of options so that every pupil can participate.

The benefits

Educate pupils about the importance of movement and how it can positively impact their learning and well-being. Understanding the benefits can motivate pupils to fully engage in movement breaks and take them seriously.

Celebrate success

Recognise and celebrate the positive outcomes of movement breaks, such as improved behaviour or academic achievements. Acknowledging success reinforces the value of movement breaks and encourages continued participation.