How do we incorporate physical activity into the classroom? Presented to the VUSD Wellness Council January 19, 2012

Where did Brain Breaks Originate? Developed by undergraduate teacher education students from Albion College, Concordia University, and the University of Michigan to help increase the number of physical activities implemented into the elementary classroom. Part of The Michigan Model for Health which is based on the Adapted Health Belief Model, a merging of several behavior change theories including the Social Cognitive Theory, Social Influence Theory, and Social Behavioral Theory. A key principle of the Adapted Health Belief Model is that a health education program is more likely to impact behavior change if it includes all of the following components: knowledge, skills, self-efficacy, and environmental support.

How do Brain Breaks affect our Students? Brain Body COGNITIVE Body Image Following Directions Language Laterality Sequencing PSYCHOSOCIAL Best Effort Cooperation Self Control Compassion Respect Responsibility Constructive Competition PSYCHOMOTOR SKILLS Balance General Coordination Hand/Foot/Eye Coordination Tactile Touch FITNESS Flexibility Strength Aerobic

Why Should I Incorporate Brain Breaks Into My Day?

Why Should I Incorporate Brain Breaks Into My Day? cont.

Let’s See Some Examples! videos.html

Gallery Walk Brainstorm! Think of physical activities that you could include in your lessons that would: Promote Creative Learning Incorporate into (not supplant) district adopted curriculum Get your students out of their seats to move and have Fun! (Fun is not a 4 letter word!)

T.E. Dig In! Where can we add these activities? Work with your grade level to find at least one place where you could incorporate a physical activity into HM. Use your SIOP 99 Ideas book, the videos we watched, or our posters to give you ideas. Make sure that the breaks are time “wise”. (No more than 3-5 minutes or so)

Where Can I Get Other Ideas? Literacy Coach PE Teacher Colleagues Websites – see list provided

Homefun! (Who are we kidding it’s homework!) Pick one Brain Break idea you’ve seen today and try it in your classroom. Be ready to share your experience with the group at the next meeting. Tips: Plan it into your lesson Try it out with a small group of friends or students first Have a contingency plan Make it a habit!