Il programma ABMOVE!

The ABMOVE! programme is an educational intervention integrating active breaks into mathematics instruction for primary schools. Building upon a systematic review on active breaks and curriculum-based active breaks (Bellacicco et al., 2025) and grounded in theories of embodied cognition (Skulmowski & Rey, 2018) and Universal Design for Learning principles (Hall et al., 2012), the programme was developed through a rigorous Educational Design Research approach (McKenney & Reeves, 2019), following cyclical frameworks that integrate analysis, design, development, and evaluation through iterative cycles. This participatory process involved active collaboration with classroom teachers, physical education specialists, and academic experts, ensuring the integration of theoretical perspectives with practical implementation considerations. The programme is structured over 12 weeks, with three curriculum-based active breaks per week, each lasting 10-12 minutes, designed to improve executive functions, reduce mathematics anxiety, and enhance student engagement. ABMOVE! is organized around the acronym: A (Activity), B (Be ready), M (Mathematics), O (On the Move), V (Variations), E (Extra), ! (Inclusion). Each active break follows a tripartite structure (ABstart, core activity, ABstop) and provides teachers with comprehensive resources including theoretical-methodological guides, operational sheets, flashcards, digital materials, and demonstrative videos. ABMOVE! recognizes the epistemic role of the body in movement within mathematical learning processes, offering a framework for more inclusive and engaging teaching practices.