Incorporating Movement into the Classroom: A Guide for Principals and Teachers
Colorful gym balls. Frequent meditation breaks. A five-minute dance party. All of these might seem out of place in a traditional classroom, but research has shown that incorporating movement into the classroom can enhance student learning, behavior, and overall well-being. In fact, physical activity, even in short bursts between lessons, can help students manage anxiety and stress.
Despite the proven benefits of movement breaks, not all schools and educators have the time to incorporate them into their teaching. Only 11 percent of elementary schools nationwide require activity breaks for students, and this commitment decreases as students progress through middle and high school. Many students don’t have time for unstructured play or rest during the school day, leading to negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle exacerbated by screen time at school and at home.
To combat these issues, principals can empower teachers to experiment with different types of movement activities in the classroom. Here are some innovative ideas for incorporating movement into learning:
Invest in flexible and fun seating options: Consider introducing special seats like bouncy balls, chairs with elastic kick bands, and floor desks in the classroom. These seating options allow students to move while they learn, but clear expectations should be set to ensure they are used appropriately.
Make tough concepts easy to understand: Instead of relying solely on textbooks, find creative ways to explain complex concepts through movement. For example, demonstrate how bodies rotate on their own axis through dance, making learning more engaging and interactive.
Collaborate with different stakeholders: Bring together interventionists, PE coaches, and classroom teachers to create a movement-based learning plan that helps students develop fine motor skills and stay active throughout the day.
For principals and teachers looking to incorporate more movement into their own routines, consider the following tips:
Organize group activities: Host dance classes or other physical activities for teachers to participate in during lunch or after school. These activities can help build camaraderie and promote physical fitness among staff members.
Connect with the community: Engage in activities like hiking or nature clubs to improve student and parent engagement while also benefiting from physical and mental health benefits.
Take small steps: Incorporate movement into daily routines by walking the halls regularly or moving around the classroom with students. Physical activity should seamlessly integrate into the day without adding extra stress to teachers’ plates.
By prioritizing movement in the classroom and among educators, schools can create a more active and engaging learning environment that benefits the well-being of both students and staff. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in our daily lives, impacting everything from how we work to how we socialize. As we continue to navigate through these uncertain times, it is important to be aware of the potential long-term effects that the pandemic may have on our mental health.
One of the most concerning aspects of the pandemic is the increased rates of anxiety and depression that have been reported. The stress of dealing with a global health crisis, along with the isolation that many people have experienced due to lockdowns and social distancing measures, has taken a toll on our mental well-being. In fact, a recent study found that rates of anxiety and depression have more than tripled since the start of the pandemic.
Another troubling trend is the rise in substance abuse and addiction. Many people have turned to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. This can lead to a vicious cycle of dependence and further exacerbate mental health issues.
Furthermore, the economic impact of the pandemic has also had a detrimental effect on mental health. Many people have lost their jobs or faced financial insecurity, leading to feelings of hopelessness and despair. The constant worry about how to make ends meet can take a significant toll on our mental well-being.
It is clear that the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic will be felt long after the virus is brought under control. It is important for individuals to be proactive in taking care of their mental health during these challenging times. This can include seeking out therapy or counseling, practicing self-care activities such as exercise and meditation, and staying connected with loved ones even if it is through virtual means.
In addition, it is crucial for policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize mental health services and support in the wake of the pandemic. This may include increasing access to mental health resources, providing funding for mental health programs, and raising awareness about the importance of mental well-being.
As we continue to navigate through these uncertain times, it is essential to prioritize our mental health and well-being. By acknowledging the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health and taking proactive steps to address them, we can work towards building a healthier and more resilient society in the aftermath of COVID-19.
