Anyone notice that students have higher energy as the weather improves?
Just as we see the finish line for the school year in sight, it can be more challenging to keep students engaged in academics due to higher energy levels. Also, families get busier as the weather gets nicer, so some of the dysregulation we are experiencing can also be due to lack of adequate rest.
One of our favorite ways to manage high energy and big feelings is to practice Planks and Plank Variations for movement breaks as needed.
Planks are a great way to regulate because of the proprioceptive input they provide for joints and muscles. This weight bearing movement is a safe way to expend the extra energy that can make it hard to focus.
How can you successfully implement Planks and Plank variations for regulating movement breaks into your classroom?
- Provide plenty of options so everyone can feel successful – Planks can be done with knees on the ground for extra support or on the toes. Forearm and straight arm Planks can be used. Allow everyone to choose what variation works for them each day.
- Take a break when needed – Encourage students to hold their Plank variation until they are fatigued, Then they can lay on their stomach or come into Child’s for a rest break. If they have more energy, they can come back into Plank until they fatigue again.
- Challenge the group to challenge themselves – Each time you start a Plank Break, encourage students to try to hold their Plank variation a little longer. Track progress as Plank holds become longer and longer!
- Self-directed Plank Challenge – Support self-regulation by offering students options to use Plank variations to reset as needed. You might designate a corner where students can go and hold a minute Plank when they need to or remind students that they can get the same benefit at their desk with a Chair Lift.
Plank variation challenges are a favorite during springtime. Send us a photo of how you are using Plank challenges and other movement breaks this spring at info@move-mindfully.com
Great ideas and very much needed.
Remind me what chair lifts are?
Thank you!
Chair lifts are when you grab onto the side of the chair and lift yourself up. A lot of kids love this because it is a challenging move. In our card deck it is card #18 or you can find it on our app.