In the previous post I talked about the difficulties with communication and children with Autism. Therefore, break cards are a great way for nonverbal students to communicate or for students that have a hard time staying on task. You can allow students to have 2-3 breaks during a certain amount of time. This allows them to get up to move or for a walk to the bathroom. When they return the students are on track and ready to learn. Students with autism sometime have a difficult time communicating and sharing their needs. Therefore these cards can help them state that they need a break from too much work.
Also, if you are in an inclusive classroom you can allow all students to have break cards. I am an elementary teacher and my students constantly asked to go to the bathroom just to go. They can use these cards wisely and gain responsibility how many breaks they may receive.
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Helen,
ReplyDeleteI think the idea of providing students a break, or a certain number of breaks throughout the day is a great way to keep them on task and motivated. Many students can not sit still for a long period of time and need that break to stretch, take a walk, or even get a drink of water and refocus. When they return from their break they are ready to get back to work. Giving students the option to have a break allows for less disruptions and behavioral problems throughout the school day.
Helen,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your choice of using break cards and giving them a certain number to use throughout the day. This also teaches your students responsibility. They need to use these break cards wisely so if they need them later in the day they have them. I do want to use break cards in my classroom as well because I believe all students need a break after going from class to class all day. By giving them a two minute break to regain themselves, they will come back ready to work again.