Calming Down the Classroom After Brain Breaks
Brain breaks are a great way to energize students, but transitioning back to learning afterward can be tricky. With the right strategies, you can help your class refocus their minds and bodies for productive learning. Here are ideas to work on calming down the classroom after brain breaks to make those transitions smooth and effective.
WHY CALMING THE CLASS AFTER MOVEMENT MATTERS
Movement breaks, PE class, and recess are all essential for kids’ physical and mental well-being, but they can also leave students overstimulated or distracted. With a thoughtful routine, calming tools like music, and visual aids, you can guide your students into a state of calm readiness for learning. Without a plan in place, it can be challenging to bring the class back to a state where they’re ready to focus.
Having a structured plan for calming down after movement:
- Helps students transition smoothly from active to focused states.
- Reduces classroom disruptions and wasted time.
- Provides consistency, which makes students feel secure and supported.
- Builds lifelong self-regulation skills students can use beyond the classroom.
BRAIN BREAK SUGGESTIONS
Start by giving your students a chance to move, stretch, and reset with engaging brain breaks. These activities help release energy while still maintaining structure. Here are some fun and effective options:
Once your students have had their movement break, it’s time to transition back to calm and focus using a routine, music, and the Calm and Ready to Learn Checklist.
ROUTINES AFTER BRAIN BREAKS
Having a consistent routine after brain breaks helps students calm down and prepare for the next task. A predictable pattern lets them know what’s expected and how to refocus. If you’re looking for calming songs to incorporate into your routine, explore the Calm and Strong Songs for Self-Calming packet: Calm and Strong Songs.
ADD MUSIC TO YOUR ROUTINE
Music is a powerful tool for calming and refocusing. Play the Calm and Ready to Learn music video after brain breaks to guide students back to a learning mindset. The lyrics are below.
Lyrics:
Take a deep breath, feel your mind waking.
Close your eyes, let your thoughts settle.
Hands are resting, your body feels steady.
The moment is here, you’re ready to begin.
Feel your feet grounded, strong and quiet.
Sit up tall, let your focus return.
Shoulders soft, your breath moves slowly.
Your mind is clear, ready to learn.
The noise fades away, the calm takes over.
This is your time, your space to grow.
Thoughts are sharp, your heart feels open.
The world is waiting, so take it slow.
Lift your gaze, feel your brain engage.
Gentle focus, no need to rush.
Everything you need is already inside.
You’re here, you’re ready, you’re strong.
The noise fades away, the calm takes over.
This is your time, your space to grow.
Thoughts are sharp, your heart feels open.
The world is waiting, so take it slow.
Let your breath guide you, let the calm stay.
Your body is still, your mind is awake.
In this moment, you’re ready to try.
Let’s begin—step by step, thought by thought.
If you need even more calming music, try this video: Additional Calming Music Video. It’s part of the Calm and Strong Songs for Self-Calming packet: Calm and Strong Songs.
USE A CHECKLIST
The Calm and Ready to Learn Checklist is a step-by-step guide to help students prepare their bodies and minds for learning after a break.
What’s included:
- Take a Deep Breath: Breathe in slowly, then let it out gently.
- Sit Up Tall: Feel your back straight and strong.
- Feet Flat on the Floor: Keep them steady and grounded.
- Hands Resting and Ready: Rest them calmly on your desk.
- Brain Focused: Bring your attention to the task ahead.
- Thinking Calm Thoughts: Picture peace and readiness in your mind.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CALMING DOWN THE CLASSROOM CHECKLIST
With these brain break ideas, routines, music, and the checklist, you’ll have everything you need to help your class transition smoothly back to learning. Set your students up for success with calm and focus after every break!
