Plus the Benefits of Taking a Mental Break from Tasks
Letting your brain take a mental break from the task at hand gives you a chance to reset and refocus. This concept isn’t a new one, but educational research on the benefits of brain breaks keeps growing. While these brain breaks are great for everyone, they are particularly wonderful for children with trauma. These breaks provide a respite during tough transition times for kids with trauma.
The Benefits of Brain Breaks for Children with Trauma
Our brains can’t run at 100 percent all of the time. Much like medicine, brain breaks are designed to help with specific needs and can be adjusted when needed. Don’t think of them as a bandage, but rather a way for a child with trauma to help build stress tolerance. This can help them work through their trauma and deal with stressful situations in a healthier manner.
Brain breaks are simply taking a moment to self-regulate. When we are regulated, our brains can operate from higher regions of the brain that allow us to think more clearly, make better decisions, and interact with those around us in a healthier and more effective manner.
The 3 Types of Brain Breaks
Brain breaks can be used for a variety of purposes and selecting the right type is important. There are three different types of brain breaks: energizing, calming, and focusing. So if a child is having a hard time focusing in the classroom, a focusing brain break is more beneficial than an energizing one. If kids are overactive and being disruptive, it might be time for a calming brain break. When utilized well in a classroom, brain breaks can benefit all of your students. And when they are used at home, it can help transform your home environment as well!
How to Make Brain Breaks More Effective
So how do you use brain breaks more effectively? Here’s a few tips to get the most out of this versatile tool.
- Break Often: Brain breaks should be done around every 20 to 30 minutes, though the exact time depends on the age of the child.
- Be Consistent: Establish a routine, for example, adding one in before transitioning to a new activity, such as lunch.
- Make it Fun: It shouldn’t just feel like another chore or task, but an actual break, so make it fun and interactive to increase motivation and participation.
- Change it Up: Don’t do the same brain break activity every time; brain breaks are much more effective if you incorporate different types of activity, such as physical movement and breathing exercises.
Now, let’s take a look at 5 different brain breaks you can utilize to transform your classroom or a home.
5 Brain Breaks that Transform!
1 | Energizing and Focusing – Simon Says
This classic game gets kids both moving and following instructions by practicing listening skills. Have kids stand up and follow your poses and instructions. If you haven’t heard of Simon Says, this game has a leader who gives commands, such as “Simon says touch your elbow.” Others must follow only the commands that begin with “Simon says,” otherwise, they are out. You can have your kids stand, and then when they are out, they have to sit down.
2 | Calming – Chair Yoga
Guide kids through gentle yoga poses while seated. The movement can help get excess wiggles out but also helps to calm the mind. Try pairing it with calming music to make it an extra relaxing experience.
3 | Calming and Focusing – Mindful Breathing
Have kids practice deep breathing. This activity is both relaxing, but focusing as well, as kids tune into their body and acknowledge how they are feeling. There are many sources out there to help guide deep breathing, both online and in apps such as Calm or YouTube.
4 | Focusing – Alphabet Game
Have kids name items starting with each letter of the alphabet. You can choose a specific category, such as animals or items in the kitchen. This helps kids focus on a particular task while also having some fun. For classrooms, have kids take turns, with one kid giving an answer for each letter. At home, you can do this with your child by going back and forth with answers.
5 | Energizing – Mirror Movements
This brain break can help get lethargic kids up and moving! Have kids partner up and mirror one another’s movements. Or, you could have one leader for the entire classroom that leads the exercise. At home, take turns with your child mirroring one another’s movements.
Key Takeaways
Brain breaks are a powerful tool for helping kids maintain focus, reducing stress, and creating a positive environment in the classroom or the home. Incorporating these short and intentional activities into your daily routine enhances learning outcomes and promotes general well-being. Want more information on brain breaks? Check out this article on the power of brain breaks!
