The first few weeks of school are exciting, a little chaotic, and full of big feelings. Between setting routines, learning names, and reminding your class daily where the glue sticks go, it’s easy to forget one small but mighty classroom tool: the brain break.

These short, simple pauses help students reset, refocus, and re-energize—and the best part? They don’t require prep. Here are five brain breaks to keep things light, fun, and manageable during those early days.

1. Copy Me

Stand at the front and start a pattern of movements—clap, stomp, spin, dab—whatever your mood. Students copy you in real time, Simon-Says style (but no need to trick them—this is just for fun). After a few rounds, let a student be the leader. It’s fast, silly, and gets everyone moving.

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Content TopicsBrain Breaks

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By Allison Behne

Author, Coach, Teacher

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