Activities to Teach Students Before, After, and Between – Up to 20
![](https://dev.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/who_teaches_us_in_school-11-660x400.jpg)
As a teacher, it is important to keep your students engaged in learning throughout the entire school day, including before, after, and between classes. Here are some fun and educational activities to help make the most of those in-between times.
Before Class:
1. Journaling: Encourage students to journal for a few minutes before class begins. Students can write about their day, things they are excited about, or even just doodle. This quiet activity can help students focus their minds before diving into learning.
2. Brain Boosters: Start class off on the right foot with quick brain boosters! These activities can include trivia, puzzles, or even a quick game of “heads up, seven up.”
3. Mindfulness Exercises: A quick mindfulness exercise before class can help calm students and prepare them for the day ahead. Have students close their eyes and take deep breaths, or guide them through a simple mindfulness meditation.
After Class:
4. Reflection Time: After class has ended, give students a few minutes to reflect on what they have learned that day. This can be done through journaling, or by having students share their thoughts with a partner or small group.
5. Classroom Cleanup: Encourage students to tidy up the classroom before they leave. It’s a great way to promote responsibility and teamwork, and it helps keep the classroom organized.
6. Quick Games: A quick game of “Would You Rather” or “Two Truths and a Lie” can be a fun way to end the school day on a high note.
Between Classes:
7. Stretch Breaks: Between classes is a great time for a quick stretch break. Encourage students to stand up and move around for a few minutes. You can also lead students through a few simple yoga poses.
8. Social Time: Between classes, students may need some time to socialize and catch up with friends. Encourage this by allowing a few minutes of social time before class begins.
9. Study Groups: In between classes, students can form study groups to review material from previous classes or prepare for upcoming assignments.
10. Quiet Reading: For students who need a break from socializing and activity, provide a quiet space for reading. This could be a designated reading corner in the classroom or library.
11. Mind Mapping: Mind mapping is a great way to organize thoughts and ideas. Give students a topic and have them create a mind map, either on paper or on a whiteboard.
12. Brain Breaks: Between classes, it’s important for students to take quick brain breaks to stay energized and focused. These breaks can include a quick dance party, a game of “Simon Says,” or even a few jumping jacks.
13. Word Wall: Create a word wall with new vocabulary words or phrases that students can focus on during the day. Have them create sentences or stories using these words.
14. Creative Writing Prompts: A few minutes between classes is a great time to encourage creative writing. Provide students with a prompt and encourage them to write for a few minutes. This can be a great way to get their creativity flowing.
15. Random Acts of Kindness: Encourage students to perform random acts of kindness between classes. This could be as simple as holding the door open for their classmates.
16. Technology Time: In between classes, allow students to use technology for a few minutes. This could include educational games or apps, or access to educational websites.
17. Charades: A game of charades is a fun way to get students moving and using their creativity. Choose a category, such as animals or sports, and have students act out different words or phrases.
18. Sensory Play: Between classes, students may need to engage in some sensory play to help them focus. Provide play-dough or fidget toys for students who need a tactile outlet.
19. Music Time: Play calming or energizing music in between classes to help students transition from one topic to another.
20. Daily Goals: At the beginning of each day, have students write down one goal they want to accomplish. At the end of the day, have them reflect on whether or not they achieved that goal. This encourages students to set goals and work towards them, even during those in-between times.
In conclusion, these activities are just a few ideas to help keep students engaged and learning throughout the entire school day. With a little creativity and planning, you can make the most of those in-between times and create a positive and engaging classroom environment.