Helping Students Recognize When They Need A Brain Break
May 03, 2024
As the testing season approaches, I partnered with the amazing @Jenny_Orr on a mini-project to help students recognize when they need a brain break.
- Jen is an experienced elementary teacher and author of Demystifying Discussion and co-author of We’re Gonna Keep On Talking with Matthew Kay. (They are MUST READ book for any grade-level educator!)
Teaching students to recognize when they need a brain break is essential for maintaining their focus and enthusiasm for learning.
Here are some signs and strategies that students can be taught to notice in themselves:
- Physical Signs: Students might feel fidgety, their eyes might start to feel strained, or they might begin yawning. These are indicators that their bodies need a change of activity.
- Mental Signs: If students find themselves reading the same sentence over and over without understanding it, or if they can't remember what they just read or heard, it's likely time for a break.
- Emotional Signs: Feelings of frustration or irritability can also signal that it’s time to pause. If students start feeling overwhelmed or upset about their work, a short break might help.
What would you add to this list?
How do you help students recognize when they need a brain break?
