Six Tips for Taking a Brain Break

By Adria Miller and Mary Readinger, Milton Hershey School Senior Division Behavior Support Specialists

Like many school districts across Pennsylvania, Milton Hershey School students have transitioned to online learning as a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Online learning is a great way to continue education, but it comes with its own challenges.

As online learning continues for the remainder of the school year, you may at times find it begins to affect different areas of a student’s life such as their sleep or productivity. Online learning can take a toll on your mind and body due to an increase in screen time.

Here six tips to encourage your student to take a brain break:

1. Limit excessive screen time

   Too much screen time can lead to sleep difficulties, headaches, and fatigue. Try to limit your student’s screen time by taking frequent breaks.

2. Get up and move

   Online learning often has a student sitting for an extended period of time. Encourage them to take breaks every half hour to stand up, stretch, and move around.

3. Try something new

   Due to the availability of technology, many students use electronics for entertainment when they have free time. To help limit a student’s screen time when they are not completing academic work, have them try a new hobby that does not involve electronics.

4. Be social

   Online learning can feel isolating and can lead to negative emotions and lack of focus. Encourage your student to take a break to contact a peer, talk with family, or connect with a teacher or mentor.

5. Go outside

   With online learning, many students are sitting inside most of the day. Taking a break and heading outside for fresh air can help them refocus.

6. Take a lunch break

   Eating healthy and regular meals are important for overall health. Encourage your student to eat lunch at a scheduled time daily and to take a break to ensure good self-care.