Use a Planner to Take Smart Brain Breaks
Short breaks help students stay focused, improve memory, and reduce stress. Research shows that brief pauses during learning restore attention and support better performance. These breaks work even better when students plan them intentionally.
A planner helps students build those routines. When students schedule work time and break time, they learn how to manage energy, not only time.
Why Brain Breaks Matter
Studies show the impact of short breaks during focused work.
- Breaks improve sustained attention and reduce fatigue.
- Rest periods help the brain consolidate new information.
- Simple movement or mindfulness breaks improve mood and reduce stress.
- Classrooms that use structured breaks see stronger engagement and readiness to learn.
How a Planner Supports Brain Breaks
A planner gives students a clear place to map out learning blocks and break intervals. They can:
- Schedule focus blocks followed by short breaks
- Track which routines help them stay on task
- Use notes pages for reflection
- Build healthy habits that support learning and wellbeing
When students learn to balance work and rest, they feel more confident and prepared.
Bring SEL Into the Process with School Datebooks
All School Datebooks planners support social-emotional growth in some way. Every book includes features that help students reflect, stay aware of their needs, and build healthy routines. Some series take this further with designs built around SEL from the start.
Two strong options for schools that want SEL woven throughout the planner experience:
CHARACTER COUNTS!®
This series gives students steady support in decision-making and personal growth.
- Weekly and monthly character themes guide self-awareness and positive choices
- Character-based lessons encourage reflection
- Vertical layout with block scheduling supports classroom structure
- Inspirational quotes and “Words of the Week” prompt meaningful conversations
Esteem
The Esteem datebooks take regular Block and Matrix layouts and add in extra SEL-focused content.
- 16 pages of SEL-focused learning
- Vertical layout with checkboxes encourages task completion
- Weekly goals help students form lifelong habits
- STEAM factoids and success tips inspire curiosity and confidence
These planners fit naturally with brain-break routines. Students learn to pause, check their energy, and return to work with a clearer mind. When SEL concepts appear in their planner every day, students build stronger habits that support focus, stress management, and readiness to learn.
Tips for Using Planners to Schedule Breaks
- Break study time into simple blocks.
- A 25–50 minute work period followed by a brief break works well for most students.
- Encourage movement, breathing, or stretching during breaks.
- Help students reflect on what improves focus. Ask teachers to model break routines in class planners.
Support Stronger Habits Across Your School
When your school selects planners with SEL features, you give students more than a schedule. You give them a system that supports attention, emotional regulation, and lifelong organization skills. Browse our datebooks to learn more.
Started in 1985, School Datebooks is the flagship company under the SDI Innovations umbrella and has provided datebooks to over 18,000 customers over the last 38 years. Learn more about what we do through our socials, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
