Short physical activity breaks and eye exercises during lessons are not simply a teacher’s personal initiative in Armenian schools — they are required under sanitary regulations, according to Iravaban.net.
The requirements are established by sanitary rules approved under Order No. 12-N of the Armenian Minister of Health dated March 28, 2017. The current version of the rules has been in effect since February 1, 2024.
Physical Activity Breaks During Lessons
Under Point 73 of the regulations, schools must organize physical activity breaks and sets of eye exercises during lessons to help prevent fatigue, posture problems and visual strain among students.
The regulations include specific exercises, indicating how many times they should be repeated and at what pace.
The physical exercises include movements intended to improve circulation, relieve tension in the shoulders and arms, and reduce fatigue in the torso. A separate set of exercises is prescribed for first-grade students during handwriting lessons, including movements for the hands, body and concentration.
Eye Exercises Are Also Required
The regulations provide a specific series of eye exercises. These include blinking, briefly closing the eyes, shifting focus between nearby and distant objects, following finger movements without moving the head, and making controlled circular eye movements.
Most exercises are repeated four to five times, while the exact number and pace vary depending on the exercise.
Special Requirement After Computer-Based Lessons
Under Point 74, students are also required to perform the prescribed eye exercises at their workstation after activities involving computer screens or video display terminals.
Why the Middle of the Lesson Matters
The sanitary requirements also regulate the structure of a lesson. The workload should gradually increase, reach its maximum around the middle of the lesson and then decrease toward the end.
Short breaks should be incorporated to reduce static muscle tension and help maintain students’ mental performance.
What If a School Does Not Organize Such Breaks?
According to the cited regulations, physical activity breaks and eye exercises are formulated as a requirement rather than an optional recommendation.
The rules apply to institutions implementing general education programs regardless of their ownership or organizational form. Parents concerned that these requirements are not being followed can raise the matter with the class teacher, school administration or parent council.
The regulations also contain additional provisions aimed at preventing posture problems and encouraging proper working posture among students.
Note: This information is provided for general legal awareness and does not constitute legal advice.
