Written collaboratively by Tracy Nelson and by Kimberly Cripps, former SDSU Extension Family & Community Health Field Specialist.
Do your students struggle with behavior or staying on task? Boost your classroom productivity with Brain Breaks!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Brain Break?
Also known as brain bursts, brain boosters, activity breaks, brain breaks are quick activities that aim to both engage children in physical activity and enhance their learning experience.
What equipment do I need?
Depending on the brain break you would like to do, they all have different equipment demands. Some require no additional equipment (just the teacher and the students) while others have specific equipment recommendations. The needed is equipment is listed with each activity so you can quickly identify if the activity would work for your classroom.
How much time do they take?
Most brain breaks last one to four minutes depending on the activity.
What is the benefit?
After 20 minutes of being sedentary, brain ability to focus decreases. By using a brain break, we can encourage the brain to become more engaged by using small bouts of mind/body challenges. Brain breaks have been proven to improve cognitive skills, increase brain activity and encourage social and emotional growth.
What are some additional resources?
YouTube, GoNoodle, Fit by Sanford
