Teacher-Tested Ways to Use Brain Breaks in the Classroom

As teachers, we know the drill: You start the day with a lesson plan, the kids are engaged, and everything is running smoothly… until they’re not. Whether it's restless energy after lunch, distracted students before a test, or the natural afternoon slump, keeping kids focused throughout the day can be a challenge.

That’s where brain breaks come in.

These short, movement-based breaks not only refresh young minds, but also help children retain information, improve focus, and create a more positive classroom environment.

But how exactly do you implement them? No worries, we’ve got you covered.

What Makes Brain Breaks So Effective in the Classroom?

We all know that kids can’t sit still for long periods. Studies show that physical movement increases blood flow to the brain, helping to improve concentration and mental clarity. Brain breaks help students:

• Refocus and reset when attention drifts

• Release pent-up energy before it turns into restlessness

• Boost mood and reduce stress

• Improve retention and recall when learning new material

Even a short break (2–5 minutes) can make a huge difference in classroom dynamics. The best part? It’s easy to integrate brain breaks into any part of the day.

How to Use Brain Breaks in the Classroom

Here are teacher-tested ways to seamlessly add brain breaks into your routine:

1. Before Transitions

Transitions can be chaotic—whether you're moving between subjects or preparing for group work. A quick brain break in between helps students shift gears without losing focus or discipline.

2. After Long Sitting Periods

If you’ve had the class sitting quietly for 20 minutes or more, it’s time for a brain break. This will keep them from getting fidgety and losing focus.

3. Before Tests or Quizzes

Before diving into a test or quiz, use a brain break to help students relax and focus. It helps calm nerves and creates a positive mindset for learning.

4. During Afternoon Slumps

Let’s face it, the afternoon slump is real. After lunch or towards the end of the day, kids can lose focus. That’s when a quick brain break works wonders.

5. In Between Group Work or Collaborative Projects

Group activities can be mentally taxing, especially after long collaborative sessions. A quick break in between allows students to regain focus and make the next task more effective.

How Active Brain Breaks Can Help Your Classroom Thrive

Incorporating brain breaks doesn’t just help kids focus—it also improves behaviour, reduces stress, and creates a more engaging classroom environment overall. The result? Students feel more energized, connected, and ready to learn.

Our Active Brain Breaks for Kids are designed specifically for the classroom or home:

• No prep needed

• Easy to follow

• Perfect for all ages

• Printable and digital formats available

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re teaching in person or remotely, brain breaks are a simple yet powerful way to keep kids engaged and help them succeed. By using movement-based resets throughout the day, you’ll see improved focus, happier students, and a more energized classroom.

Ready to make brain breaks a part of your classroom routine?