Are We Over-Breaking Kids?
Rethinking the Role of Breaks in the Classroom
Breaks are a valuable part of any school day — for students and teachers alike. They offer a moment to reset, regulate, and refocus. But what happens when breaks become the go-to response for every challenge? Lately, we’ve seen a trend that raises an important question:
Are all these breaks actually helping students... or are they quietly reinforcing the very behaviors we’re trying to support?
When Breaks Become Avoidance
Scheduled breaks, sensory breaks, self-directed breaks, and teacher-initiated breaks all have their place. But when a student’s behavior is rooted in escaping or avoiding a task, offering a break with no connection back to that task may unintentionally reinforce avoidance.
If students consistently struggle to return to the learning environment following a break, it’s a sign that the break didn’t help regulate them. That’s not failure — that’s data. It’s a sign for us to explore other tools and strategies that may better support their regulation needs.
What Makes a Break Effective?
Here are some non-negotiables to consider before ending a student break:
Track the data. Use a break log to monitor frequency, duration, time of day, and reasons. Use Google Forms + Sheets for easy graphing, as patterns can likely be seen.
Reintroduce the task. If the break was to avoid a task, make sure there’s some level of re-engagement with it. Even if it’s just a small chunk.
Support transitions. Use a timer and verbal prompt to signal the end of the break and prepare for the end of the break.
Allow functional communication. Visual tools like a “more time” board give students a way to advocate for themselves to have more time (up to 3 minutes).
Best Practices for Break Success
Want to make your breaks truly work? Here are some essential practices:
Set up a designated, safe break location
Schedule breaks proactively for students who benefit from routine
Always have an exit plan — that includes:
A smooth transition to and from the classroom
A short reflection or plan for re-entry
A restorative conversation (if needed)
Reconnection to any unfinished work (because work doesn’t just disappear!)
Breaks should help students reset, not escape. With intention and the right strategies, they can become powerful tools for growth, regulation, and self-advocacy.
Contact us to learn more about helping students regulate and return to class.
