Introduction
As educators, we strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for our students. One way to achieve this is by incorporating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) activities into our classrooms. These activities help students develop essential life skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, and effective communication. In this blog post, we will explore a fun and engaging SEL activity called the Wiggle and Jump Break. This activity encourages students to release pent-up energy while also promoting a sense of calm and focus. Let’s dive in!
No-Prep Activity: Wiggle and Jump Break
The Wiggle and Jump Break is a simple, no-prep activity that helps students release energy and refocus their minds. To begin, have students stand up and find a space where they won’t bump into anyone. They should stretch their arms out to ensure they have enough room. Then, follow these steps:
- Ask students to jog in place. Gradually increase the speed, encouraging them to run faster and faster.
- Next, have students mimic a shark by clapping their hands together, reaching up, and chomping down. Repeat this motion several times.
- Transition to climbing an imaginary ladder. Students should move their arms and legs as if they are climbing, increasing speed as they go.
- Now, have students flap their arms like a bird, pretending to fly into the clouds.
- Finally, ask students to hop side to side like a bunny, moving from one side to the other with small jumps.
After completing the activity, encourage students to take a deep breath in and out, helping them refocus and prepare for the rest of the day.
Discussion Questions
Use these questions to stimulate further discussions about the Wiggle and Jump Break activity and its benefits:
- How did you feel before and after the Wiggle and Jump Break? Did it help you release energy and refocus?
- Why do you think it’s important to take breaks and engage in physical activities during the day?
- Can you think of other activities that could help you calm down and refocus when you’re feeling restless or overwhelmed?
- How can incorporating movement and physical activity into our daily routines benefit our overall well-being?
- What are some ways we can support each other in practicing self-regulation and maintaining focus in the classroom?
Related Skills
While the Wiggle and Jump Break focuses primarily on self-regulation and self-awareness, there are many other skills that contribute to a well-rounded SEL curriculum. Some related skills to consider incorporating into your classroom include:
- Active listening and effective communication
- Empathy and understanding others’ perspectives
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Resilience and coping strategies
Next Steps
Now that you’ve learned about the Wiggle and Jump Break and its benefits, you may be interested in exploring more SEL activities and strategies. To help you get started, we invite you to sign up for free samples of the discussed skill and other related materials. These resources will provide you with additional tools to support your students’ social-emotional development and create a positive learning environment in your classroom.
