Research supports the use of classroom exercises during the school day.

Regular exercise breaks for elementary students helps improve learning and
classroom behavior. Physical movement breaks increase focus, attention, and
memory so that kids retain information. Routine classroom exercise and
physical activity breaks improve test scores and executive function in kids.
Choosing specific types of exercise in elementary schools supports motor
development and stimulates sensory pathways in the brain.

Throughout my years of working in the schools as an occupational therapist, I

often collaborate with teachers in creating classroom exercise programs.

I make sure that the exercise programs I create address several areas of
development. It’s important to make every movement break count in order to
maximize the benefits for kids.

My classroom exercises incorporate activities that stimulate and strengthen

sensory pathways for attention and learning in a child’s brain. They focus on
using movement, balance and vestibular input as well as calming and
organizing proprioceptive input for the muscles. Whole class exercises should
also address posture, core strength, and fine motor skill development in the
body.

Decades ago, I would share classroom exercises for special needs students
that I worked with in elementary schools. But now, teachers and I are finding
that the movement activities and OT strategies benefit ALL SCHOOL-
AGED CHILDREN!

Why Do Kids Need Brain Breaks and Classroom Exercises?

There are so many changes in society right now that negatively impact
development.

Changes in play and routines during infancy, toddlerhood and preschool

interfere with typical sensory and physical development.

Additionally, the increased use of technology impacts motor skill development

and attention.

Kids’ bodies aren’t developing the strong foundation they need for optimal
school-age performance. So many teachers I know report difficulties with
attention and basic motor skills from the entire class. They see this as the “new
normal.”