Finding opportunities for movement is essential in 3rd Grade. Without movement breaks, students have a very difficult time focusing and putting forth their best effort. With some instructional blocks lasting almost 3 hours, we have to look for opportunities for students to get their wiggles out.
Every morning we start our day with SmartMoves – a DVD of weekly exercises developed to increase focus, memory, balance, coordination and relaxation. My students are making their way from “Simple” to “Formidable” challenges for the 5th year in a row. According to the creator, “SmartMoves synthesizes the visual, auditory, motor planning, and thinking skills that are at the very core of learning. These skills are grounded in music and rhythm, which are related to motor planning and sequencing, and have a strong impact on academic performance and cognitive reserve.”
Starting today, students were also introduced to our balance cushions. These inflatable discs can be used to sit on, against, or can be used underfoot. Again, these tools are designed to increase balance, focus, self-control and posture. Students choose whether or not to use balance cushions each day, and they’re welcome to use them on the rug or in their chairs.
Our Weekly Video this week (below) introduces what will become our Fun Friday morning video from here on out. The kids know I love Sesame Street, so sharing Usher’s “ABC’s Are Movin’ You” song is a great way to get us all moving while honing those alphabet skills.
Setting off together
Soon we will begin logging miles in our Mullen-Hall Mileage Club. Students are encouraged to voluntarily walk, jog or run laps on Tuesdays and Thursdays at recess.
Next week, students will be introduced to appropriate in-class exercises to help them shake off the wiggles and get back to work. Students who are aware of their levels of focus and attention are better able to stay on target as they work independently. Independent work is an essential 3rd grade skill! Let’s keep moving and working together!!
“♪ ♫ With a little cooperation, we can make it through… ♪ ♫ ” 🙂
I like Smart Moves because it relaxes me before I get my work done and it helps me focus on my work.
Smart moves works.The old moves are getting easier and the new moves are harder.Smart moves is good in the morning because it relaxes everybody and its a good time to think about the work we are going to do.
Hi Catherine!
I’m so glad you are finding SmartMoves to be helpful in third grade. I’ve seen it help students every year, and it is something I share with teachers everywhere I go. Wait until you can see what is possible when we get to FORMIDABLE!! HEE!
Have a wonderful evening!
Love,
Mrs. Brooks
Hi Mrs. Brooks and class,
I’m soooooo glad you shared this Sesame Street video on your blog! I LOVE the beat and all the different ways to remember different letters and keywords. How fun! Can’t wait to introduce it to my second graders!
Hi Mrs. Lewis!
I’m so glad you found it! We have fallen in love with it and plan on using it for every Friday Morning video. Let us know how your 2nd graders like it!
Miss you!
Love,
Your Friend,
Mrs. Brooks