Brain breaks—a quick 5-10 minutes away from the computer or desk—are essential for making distance learning a success. Without the physical movement that flows throughout a typical school day, students need to be reminded to give their eyeballs a rest and shake out their bodies! These activities, songs, and exercises will energize kids to keep learning. Read on for some ideas that can be enjoyed by the whole family!

GoNoodle: The wildly popular GoNoodle is a one-stop shop for silly, fun movement! Try some favorites like Banana Banana Meatball, Milkshake, and Raise the Roof. If your older kids like TikTok, they can certainly get in on the action here.

Have a laugh: A burst of endorphins is a surefire way to break up the day. Take turns telling your favorite jokes—try and bring new ones to the table every day!—or sharing funny memories or stories from the day.

Simon Says: This classic game keeps the neurons firing while getting the body moving. Take turns being “Simon” and giving simple commands like jumping, marching, or pointing. But only move when “Simon Says!”

Meditation breathing: Using meditative techniques for breathing can help restore calm and improve concentration. Simply focusing on your breath for a few moments will leave you feeling refreshed.

• Take Five breathing: Hold one hand out like a star. Using the pointer finger on the other hand, slowly trace up and down your fingers, breathing in as you move up and breathing out as you move down.
• Box breathing: Inhale for three seconds, hold for three seconds, exhale for three seconds, hold for three seconds. Complete four cycles.

Dance it out: There’s nothing like a dance party for instant fun! All you need is one great jam (though you might want two once you get moving!). Take turns choosing family favorites, add a twist and make it Freeze Dance, or pick songs like the Cha Cha Slide that have dance moves already incorporated!

Stretching and yoga: Stretching and yoga poses are great for relieving the stiffness that can come with extended time at a desk. Pick a few favorites like Cat and Cow or Sun Salutations to have in your back pocket for when you’ve been hunched over a screen for too long. 

Rock/Paper/Scissors: The age-old game heats up the competition fast! A best-of-three tournament for the whole family will be done in under 10 minutes, but the rivalry can continue long after it's over!

What are your favorite ways to take study breaks? Check out our GooseChase scavenger hunt tomorrow for a Brain Break mission and give us your best tips!