Your child needs homework breaks. Why? Because, students who learn and think differently can have low stamina, frustration tolerance, and planning skills. And, research shows that brain breaks are helpful supports for those students.

You may think that relaxing with a video game or YouTube video is a good homework break. But those are so fun and immersive that they’re hard to stop. Plus, they can cause long-term distraction and less interest in homework.

Effective homework breaks are quick, structured breaks. They use physical movement, mindfulness exercises, or sensory activities. Remember – different minds, or moods, call for different types of breaks.

Here are my top recommendations for refreshing and refueling your brain:

• A 20-minute walk which increases blood flow to the brain, quickens reaction time and sharpens decision making
• A nourishing snack, like blueberries or pumpkin seeds.
• A water break
• Rest. Even a short nap of around 20 minutes boosts your ability to concentrate by giving your brain a chance to restore depleted energy.  
• Daydreaming, which promotes creativity and consolidates learning. 
• Social interaction, which can boost mood and memory

If you would like more specific ideas for different times of day, check out this brain break bank from understood.org Enjoy!