Teaching Strategies
How Can Teachers Make the Most Out of School Breaks
As educators, we know that school breaks can be a time for students to rest and recharge. However, this can also be an opportunity for teachers to relax, stretch their skills, and learn in new ways. Sometimes you need a creative boost and some support to map out a plan. Read on to learn more from our former teachers and BrainPOPers on strategies and tips to maximize the potential for school breaks for teachers.
Essential tips for school break time
According to the National Education Association (NEA), “self-care is incredibly important for teachers. Whether it’s a five-minute break or taking a personal day, make sure to take some time resting your brain and your body. Learn how to set healthy boundaries for yourself.” Consider the following must-try actionable tips from Nicolina Abruzzese, BrainPOP Regional Sales Manager and former educator:
Rest and recharge
Sleep in and rest. Try not setting your alarm, even initially, for at least a few days a week. Give your body and mind truly a chance to rest.
Pick up a new hobby
Try something new that you’ve never done before. For example, take a cooking class, art class, kayak, or learn paddle boarding.
Treat yourself
This could be personalized for whatever is important to you. Consider what activities or items you love and treat yourself, like getting a massage, trying a new dessert, or enjoying some time in nature.
Catch up with family and friends
Schedule FaceTime calls, go for walks, visit, or get coffee together. Being with loved ones can boost your mood!
Take a weekend trip or staycation
Consider planning a small weekend trip or enjoy resting and relaxing at home. A small trip or staycation can do wonders for self-care and help you maximize your time off.
Binge TV shows or movies
Are you all caught up on your favorite show? How about watching the latest hit movie? Consider diving into some of your favorite movies and shows to recharge during your school break.
Try to incorporate exercise into your day
Simple daily exercises can boost your mood and energy and keep your mind at optimum levels. Try going for a daily walk or run, or consider starting a new sport. For example, yoga, pilates, and swimming have mental, emotional, and physical health benefits.
The benefits of school break time
School breaks can give you a chance to carve out time for yourself, whether for personal growth and development or professional learning. They can also give you personal focus time, which is essential for being an educator in today’s classroom. Take the time to learn and discover more about who you are outside the classroom and fill your cup.
Getting ahead or diving into planning may be tempting, but give yourself time to take that break.
“I used the first two weeks [of summer break] to SLEEP and REST!! I shut my alarm off for the first time in 10 months, so I felt good about sleeping in and letting my mind and body rest. I also tried to find things to do that were relaxing, mindless, grounding, and fun. These things will look different for everyone based on your personality, hobbies, family life, and how you choose to rest and renew.” – Nicolina Abruzzese, BrainPOP Regional Sales Manager
Getting ahead or diving into planning may be tempting, but give yourself time to take that break. This could lead to additional stressors or burnout. And what’s one of the most important tips of all? Remember to turn off those school reminders. “The very first thing every teacher should do is turn off all of those alarms on your phone – yes, all 17 of them!” – Christina Knabe, BrainPOP Senior Professional Learning Strategist
School breaks are a time to recharge, reflect, and rest
School break time may look different for each teacher, but there’s one constant–give yourself time to give back to yourself. By following these tips, teachers can make the most of their school breaks and return to the classroom ready to teach and feel refreshed.
For more teaching resources, visit our Growing with BrainPOP hub.
Kelli Rascoe is a Sr. Content Strategy Manager at BrainPOP. She has nine years of experience in writing, content marketing, and strategy for tech and Fortune 500 brands. She is also the momma to a princess scientist and a pack of rescue pups.
