Your child sits at a table doing colouring, then suddenly the teacher says, "Let's dance!" Five minutes later, they're back to learning—but now their body has had a chance to move, their energy is reset, and their brain is ready to focus. This simple idea is at the heart of exciting new research that could transform how Singapore's nurseries approach the school day.
A groundbreaking study from Chile has tested what happens when schools build short "active breaks" into the curriculum. Instead of waiting for a big PE lesson once a week, children got multiple movement sessions throughout the day—10 per week for the most active group. The results? Children who had more frequent active breaks showed improvements in motor skills (like climbing, jumping, and balance), better physical fitness, and even stronger academic performance. They also developed healthier habits around sleep and eating.
Why This Matters for Singapore Families
In Singapore and across Asia, many young children spend their days in structured, sedentary activities: sitting for lessons, screen time at home, and limited free outdoor play. We know our children are getting less active, and this can affect their development and confidence. The research suggests a simple fix: rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, schools can integrate movement naturally into every day.
The beauty of this approach is that it doesn't require fancy equipment or extra time carved out of the curriculum. Active breaks can be dancing, stretching, simple games, or obstacle courses—things that take just 5–10 minutes but make a real difference. For Asian parents who value academic achievement, the good news is that these breaks don't compete with learning time; they actually boost it. Children who move more concentrate better and retain information more effectively.
What the Research Showed
The study involved 200 children aged 5–6 years in Chilean schools over 16 weeks. One group had 10 active breaks per week, another had 3–5, and a control group had none. The children with the most active breaks made the biggest gains in strength, coordination, and endurance—skills that form the foundation for sports, dance, and physical confidence later in life. Beyond fitness, their academic scores improved too, and teachers noticed better behaviour and focus during lessons.
Perhaps most importantly, children who moved more regularly developed healthier sleep patterns and better eating habits. This is crucial for young children, whose developing brains need good sleep and nutrition to thrive.
Three Ways to Use This at Home and with Your Nursery
- Ask your nursery about active breaks. If your child's school doesn't have a structured movement program, chat with teachers about adding 5–10 minute sessions a few times per week. Share this research—it shows this isn't "wasting time," it's investing in development and learning.
- Create mini-movement moments at home. Don't wait for formal PE class. Play dance music while making lunch, have "freeze dance" during screen-free time, or do simple stretches together. Even 10 minutes a day adds up and helps your child develop body awareness and coordination.
- Balance structured learning with free movement. Singapore parents often prioritise academics, but motor skills and fitness are equally important for your child's long-term success and wellbeing. A child who can climb confidently, run without tripping, and coordinate their body is also a child with better focus and self-esteem in the classroom.
The message is clear: movement isn't a break from learning—it's part of learning. By supporting active play at home and encouraging nurseries to build movement into the day, you're setting your child up for success in all areas.