When to use Brain Breaks

How do I begin the process of integrating movement into every day?

STARTS BY ANALYZING YOUR TYPICAL DAY…

• • When are you noticing the students are getting restless or lethargic?

  • Is there a specific time when you notice productivity goes down?

  • Do you see any difference after recess or outdoor play?

  • Can you determine when your class is getting restless and do you have to tools needed to take a 30 second movement break?

Are you unsure of when your students may need a break? Here are some monitoring sheets that you can use to begin to take data either within a day or a week to help determine if there is a pattern.

Classroom Monitoring Sheet Daily

Classroom Monitoring Sheet Weekly

HOW OFTEN DOES RESEARCH RECOMMEND BREAKS?

• • DAVID KATZ - ABC FOR FITNESS - recommends 30 minutes in total of Activity Bursts in a school day divided as a teacher sees fit for the classroom.

  • CORE 4+ CURRICULUM - recommends two 10 minute activity breaks within the classroom over and above PE and recess.

  • KINESTHETIC CLASSROOM: LENGEL AND KUCZALA = “When the body is inactive for 20 minutes or longer there is a decline in neuronal communication”.

  • TEACHING WITH THE BRAIN IN MIND: ERIC JENSEN - Recommendations for Direct Instruction for New Content per grade level:

Grades K-2 = 5 to 8 min

Grades 3-5 = 8 to 12 mi

Grades 6-8 = 12-18 min

Grades 9-12 = 12-18 min

Adults = 15-18 min