Research shows that integrating physical activity into learning has the following benefits:

• renewed energy and increased oxygen levels
  
• increased oxygen improves focus and memory
  
• increased efficiency in learning
  
• gives brains time to process information
  
• developing social skills through movement
  
• enhanced academic behaviour and achievement.
  

Suggested movement breaks you can do at home

Students should seek permission form their parent or carer before doing any of the following.

• Stretching or standing for 5 minutes.
  
• Challenge yourself to hold a plank position for 1 minute.
  
• If you have a sibling at home, see who can balance the longest on one foot.
  
• Dance along to your favourite song. If you don’t have one, see if you can remember all the moves to “Hot Potato” by the Wiggles.
• Wall or chair push-ups are a good way to refocus.
• Go to your backyard (if you have one) and kick a ball around or sit and read in a shady spot.
• Ask your parents to take you for a quick walk, if they can.
• Move your workstation to your balcony or backyard for an hour if you can.