By

Jen Mau,   Riverdale Mid

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Physical Activity Participation

When attention spans and concentration tend to waiver, our teachers at Riverdale add a spark to their daily routine. Students from Riverdale put together a Brain Break video that gets students up and moving! This short 3 minute video has helped students increase academic performance, helped maintain focus, and improve classroom behaviors. This is also a great activity for a cold Wisconsin School as they battle the cold weather during the winter months and need to MOVE!

How did students and adults work together as a team?

Students dressed alike and set up a good pattern for all of the students to view. They practiced over lunchtime to get in sync. They added a couple twists of their own to the song & dance "Whip Nae Nae" by Silento.

How did you accomplish your goals?

The students created and finished the video. We put it online and available to all the staff. A general email was sent with the link and explanation. This was also covered at staff meetings. Teachers have given great feedback so far.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

We continue to keep open communcation with the staff. The students have also done the Brain Break dance during our indoor recesses along with some of our school assemblies. We plan to continue this throughout the entire school year.