Yawnnnn! Students lean back, nearly toppling their chairs and reach their arms above their heads. It doesn’t have to mean they’re bored, or even sleepy. Maybe their brains are in need of more fuel—some water or a combination protein and carbohydrate snack.
Water makes up more than half of the body’s weight, and the brain has an even higher percentage. Yawning helps the body bring in extra oxygen. When you think about it, water is another great source.
Researchers don’t always agree on the amount of water we need each day, but we can teach students to pay attention to their own body’s signals. A dry mouth, fatigue, a headache or mental confusion may mean it’s time for some water. Having their own water bottles and snacks available actually teaches students to pay attention and provide for their own needs.
Protein and complex carbohydrates work together to balance the body’s glucose level, making fuel available to the brain. Try walnuts, almonds, cashews or cheese paired with dried, sweetened cranberries, raisins, fresh fruit or whole wheat crackers for a quick body-brain energy boost. Of course, caution is necessary in choosing protein sources to avoid triggering classmate allergies.
Be proactive. Adding salmon, tuna, walnuts, flax seed oil to meals will keep Omega 3 fats in the system to head off those inevitable slumps in energy and productivity.
So--how do we fit them into the packed curricular schedule without losing learning momentum? Please add a comment to share your creative solutions.
© Copyright 2007, Sandra Sunquist Stanton For helpful articles, books, resources, Sandra's bio, schedule, news and contact info, go to www.ourbrainbuddies.com