Moving and Shaking at Malone CSD

Malone CSD teachers participate in an energizing brain break activity.

Malone CSD teachers spent their October 21 st staff development day moving and shaking thanks to a visit from Sean Brock of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. During this training, teachers learned about the benefits of short physical activity breaks throughout the day, as well as strategies and resources to implement them. With the support of Creating Healthy Schools and Communities funds, participants were even able to walk away from the session with a physical activity kit. Kits included items such as bean bags, fitness cards and juggling scarves – things teachers can use to facilitate activity breaks in the classroom.

This opportunity came about after discussions this past spring with members at all three elementary schools who overwhelmingly agreed that the best thing we can do for our students is to get them moving. This not only improves their health, but also enables them to become better learners. And in times like these when testing and curriculum content have increased, strategies like this can help increase children’s ability to focus.

This workshop served as both a starting point for teachers who may not have previously utilized movement with their classes in the past, as well as an energizer for those may have been looking for new ideas.