Strategy
Brain Breaks
Energizers
UDL 7.3
UDL 9.1
Brain Breaks are intentional breaks during instruction in which students complete physical, mental or breathing exercises. Brain breaks are generally one to three minutes long and can be done individually (e.g., deep breathing, stretching), with a partner (e.g., rock-paper-scissors), or as a whole class (e.g., chants/songs, short dance routine). Depending on age, a typical student’s attention span ranges from 10-15 minutes. Therefore, breaks in instruction provide students with an opportunity to process new information and refocus, which can increase student engagement and retention of content. Brain Breaks can be used as energizing or calming activities, and when used regularly in the classroom, they relieve stress and promote a positive learning environment.