Get Moving: Fun Ways to Boost Movement at School
As summer break approaches, movement at school plays a big role in helping students stay focused and motivated to learn. With just a few weeks left, students are really feeling it. The energy is high, but attention spans are short. Sitting still gets tougher by the day.
Movement doesn’t take away from instruction. In fact, it can help students focus even better!
1. Start the day with gentle stretches
Start the school day with some gentle, easy stretching—think arm circles, toe touches or a big reach for the sky. Let students take turns leading the routine to keep it fun. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to shake off sleepiness and kick learning into gear!
2. Add brain breaks to the schedule
Build in short brain breaks between lessons to help students reset. Try jumping jacks, a quick walk down the hall or a silly exercise video. Even just two minutes of movement can make a big difference in focus. Plus, it prevents students (and teachers!) from hitting that midday slump.
3. Make recess exciting for everyone
For some students, playing comes naturally. They venture outside and let imagination take the reins. Others need a little bit more structure to get up and move.
Are students looking for something to do? Set up stations like jump rope, chalk games or relay races. Not every student loves sports, so a good mix of activities will help everyone stay active.
4. Get creative with class transitions
Switching subjects? That’s the perfect time for movement! Play a quick song and have students march to their next activity, or try “walk like an animal” challenges—hop like a frog, tiptoe like a cat. It keeps the day flowing and helps students shake off the wiggles.
5. Introduce movement-based learning
Who says learning has to be static? Swap the desk-and-chair setup for movement-based learning. Turn vocabulary reviews into walk-and-talks, use jumping for math facts or act out scenes from a story.
When students move, they stay more engaged, and they’re more likely to remember the material. It’s fun for all ability levels!
Find an activity students will love
Movement doesn’t require a huge chunk of time to be meaningful. A few minutes here and there can brighten moods and bring more energy to your lessons. Make movement a habit—and watch your students come alive!
Published by:
Joe Donovan
Founding Partner and President, Donovan Group