Sunday, August 7, 2011

Break Time Ideas


Last year I had a wiggle worm in my classroom- imagine that! I tried everything to help this student control their impulses. Finally, I came up with a list of break time ideas. Every twenty minutes (no joke), I would send this student to the hallway to take a break. I made a tape square on the carpet right outside my door, about 2 feet by 4 feet, for the student to do their activity. The activity took no more than thirty seconds and then they would return to the classroom. This helped the child focus, even if for just twenty more minutes, and it helped the rest of us keep our sanity.

So, since I'm looping with my class and I will have this precious child again, I made these break cards. I'm attaching them here for you to download. I made some a smaller size to laminate, hole punch, and keep on a ring. I will most likely assign the activity for the child to do. In the hallway I'm going to post the big pictures on the wall just above the base board. Of course, I will teach the whole class these activities and use them as needed in the day. Oh, and I will NEVER make this a punishment or use them negatively in the classroom. Honestly, I wish I could bottle this energy- somedays I could use it.

Have fun!

6 comments:

  1. I think this would also work great during transition time. You could say " Solider march" back to your sit! This is a very good idea! Anyways I'm happy I just found your blog through Cara over at The First Grade Parade.
    Rambling About Reading

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  2. These cards and activities are so fun!! You did a fabulous job. Looking forward to using them this school year. Thank you for sharing!

    First Grade Factory

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  3. Great idea! Thanks for sharing.

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  4. I found your blog through The First Grade Parade after the Texas Meet up! :) So glad she shared your blog with everyone!

    I'm a new follower!

    Amanda
    Frolicking Through First

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  5. This is an awesome idea! I definitely have a few wiggle worms who could use these brain breaks. Can you briefly describe each activity?

    Thanks for sharing!

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  6. Hi Miranda,

    I'm working on a flip video with my class that shows all the movements. Will post soon!

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