
In situations where we feel overwhelmed, anxious, upset, or confused, the amygdala blocks access to the prefrontal cortex, so no information gets in. The amygdala controls the fight or flight instinct. How Breaks Improve Learningįor new information to become stored in memory, it must reach the prefrontal cortex (responsible for executive functioning) by passing through the amygdala. Research shows that these short breaks allow regions of the brain that are blocked by stress or high-intensity work to revitalize. Shifting to a completely different activity engages a different region of the brain and different transmitters, and allows the now resting region of the brain to replenish its supply. When doing the same task for a period of time, those transmitters begin to deplete. We know that the brain uses neurotransmitters to send messages across pathways.
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Plus, I’ll list some fun brain break ideas for kids and at the end of the article, you’ll find a link to some free printable brain break cards.


How can you add brain breaks into your child/student’s day at optimal times?.This article will answer some important questions about brain breaks for kids. Brain breaks are an effective way to increase focus, support self-regulation, and boost a child’s learning in the classroom (or home).
