How would you like to be required to sit at a desk without any breaks for eight or more hours a day? Would you feel edgy, irritable and tired? My guess is that you wouldn't, neither does your child. In my teaching experiences, I have encountered many teachers who expect their students to sit still ALL day. I am NOT one of those teachers, nor am I one of those tutors!
From the time I began my teaching career, twelve years ago, I have always built some type of break into my instruction. Although I didn't have a formal name for what I was doing back then, I now realize I was giving what is now called "Brain Breaks" before they were a buzzword in education. My students enjoy having their break time as much as I do. To be honest, I can't imagine giving instruction without it.
Here are some things to keep in mind when giving brain breaks:
1) Help with Behavior Management: Some teachers believe that a brain break is a free for all where students are allowed to do whatever they want and this in turn creates chaos in the classroom. Although, this could happen, it is more likely that by giving your students a brain break , there behavior will improve. Brain breaks are planned instructional time. Research shows that brain breaks provide a rejuvenation of oxygen to the brain, which in turn, increases focus and attention when students return to the tasks at hand.
2) It's Fun: Brain breaks provide time for students time to bond with their teachers and other students in a fun and non-competitive and non=threatening way. Students should see the light hearted side of their teachers. Students need to see their teachers laugh and have fun, All work and no play, is not only boring but also draining on the mind and body.
3) Leadership: Brain breaks can be used to help students feel as though they have a stake in their classroom environment. Students can be chosen to lead the group in a brain break of their choice, thus giving them a feel for the role of leader in the classroom. I don't know about you but I feel it is extremely important to give each and every student the opportunity to test out a leadership role.
4) The importance of water: Our bodies are made up of mostly water. Just as a car needs gas to run, our bodies need water to keep us running. Water is essential for keeping our bodies running smoothly. Water provides our bodies with energy, which keeps us alert and able to focus on any task at hand. I encourage my students to keep a water bottle on their desks or tables while they work for this reason.
5) Music as a brain break: One of my favorite teachers in high school was the one that allowed us to listen to rock and roll music while we worked. Not only did it teach me how to filter out distractions but I also processed what I was learning much more effectively. In my classroom, it is not unusual to hear classical music playing as my student's work. I am not only giving them a break for the brain but I am also teaching them how to relax and also to have a love and appreciation of many different types of music that will last a lifetime.