S.M.A.R.T. Newsletter - May '21 Distance Learning

We love to use Helicopter Spins as a whole group brain break activity because they help get the wiggles out so students can focus again. Show your students a map, before you start spinning, pick a destination! When you “land,” share information about the area. Remember the return flight home at the end of your adventure!

Keep these things in mind when doing Helicopter Spins:

1. Some students tend to spin slowly this is because their vestibular system needs more stimulation– over time they will build up speed and will spin faster.
   
2. Students may not spin the whole time (15 seconds) and/or stop the whole time (15 seconds) – to make the most impact, it is important to spin for 15 seconds and stop for 15 seconds. Spinning for 15 seconds makes the fluid in the semicircular canals stimulate the cilia and stopping allows the fluid to stop moving and the cilia to return to its resting position.
   
3. Some students like to dance or walk in circles – however, this does not provide the correct stimulation, encourage students to spin in a circle. ​