Brain Energizers
Healthy kids have higher attendance rates, higher test scores, and behave better in class. Integration of physical activity during the school day is a no-brainer when it comes to getting the brain fired up (and to promote healthy habits for students).
Movement and activity is fun! Remember to keep breaks and energizers light and easy, with the flexibility for students to engage at the level they feel comfortable with.
Elementary:
Adventure to Fitness(youtube videos)
Brain Breaks for Socially Distanced or Remote Learning
K-5 Toolkit from Red Hawk Elementary
Wheel of Fitness (spin the wheel and do the activity that pops up!)
Secondary:
BOKS (MS Curriculum available) (FAQ)
50 Brain Breaks to Engage Students in the Classroom (for MS and HS students!)
More ideas!
Spin!
Jump Skip Counting: Have students count by twos, fives, tens etc. while jumping with each count. You could also practice spelling words this way.
Bean bag Skip Counting: Have students pair up and throw a bean bag to each other with each count.
Brain-Based and Focused Attention Practices
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CALM Schools Initiative (Mindfulness training tools) - FREE
- Mind Yeti
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Breathing Exercises
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Yoga Ed Youtube Channel for Children
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Write in a journal/color
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Listen to music
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Show a brief (inspiring, creative, informative) Ted Talk
Quick energizers with Professional Sport Athletes
Refocusing Activities:
Optical Illusions sites (or google "optical illusion images", be sure to screen before sharing with students)
Articles/Resources:
PureEdge (Brain Breaks, Mindful Movement curriculum: grades K-2, 3-5, 6-12)
How Regular Movement Makes You Smarter: Dr. John Ratey