One tough thing about the beginning of the year is that kids and teachers!) aren't used to being in a classroom all day. I try to work in extra brain breaks and recess time as much as possible the first two weeks of school. Keep reading to see my favorite brain breaks!
1. Roll a Task Brain Breaks
These brain breaks are simple, low-prep, and fun. All you need is a die! Roll a die (you can get a large one at the dollar store) your kids get restless, simply roll a six-sided die and then do the corresponding activity. One version has exercises like push-ups and jumping jacks. Another version has animal actions like stomping and hopping. The last version has yoga movements like downward dog and plank. Click below to snag all three!
Each brain break resource comes with a PDF and PowerPoint version. Check out how the PowerPoint version works below:
2. Brain Break Videos from GoNoodle.com
I used to have a playlist of kids dance videos saved on Youtube until...Go Noodle. Go Noodle is a free resource for educators and it has a HUGE collection of brain break videos for kids. There are choreographed dance videos to Kidz Bop songs, content-inspired rap videos, silly interactive videos, and even videos that teach kids mindfulness. You pick out a classroom avatar and after a certain amount of minutes is logged on your account, your avatar "levels up" and evolves. My kids love seeing how the avatar changes!
3. Four Corners Brain Break Game
Four corners is a game that will get your students up and moving around as they answer questions by moving around the classroom. It's a great way for students to share their favorite things and find connections with their classmates. To set up, all you have to do is label the corners of your classroom (signs are included in the resource). Then display the PowerPoint presentation and start playing!
Have you tried any of these resources before? What's your favorite classroom brain break? I'd love to hear from you!
Happy Teaching!
