Giving kids (and adults) a break from actively engaging in thinking is essential for that thinking to continue in an effective way throughout the day. So a simple brain break can go a very long way, particularly if it involves standing up and doing something physical.

Here are just some of the ways a well-timed break can positively benefit learning:

• Increased engagement and cognitive functioning

• Supporting the brain maturation process

• Enhancing mood, focus, and learning

• Increasing students perceived competence

• Improving classroom behaviour

• Strengthening student-teacher relationships

• Increasing circulation

• Increasing oxygen in the bloodstream which leads to improved concentration

Table tennis is a perfect brain break. A game can be as quick as a few minutes and can completely refresh the mind and body. Evidence straight from the POPP office definitely supports this!

Here are a couple of ping pong related brain break ideas:

First to Five
This one is self explanatory, a rally that ends when someone wins five points. Short, sharp and effective.

The Floor is Lava
Players hit the ping pong ball (soft and high) to each other trying to keep it off the ground, no matter what! (This can be played with just bats and balls, no table required)

Round robin
Multiple players run continuously around the table, taking turns to hit the ball. If a player misses their shot, they're knocked out. Last player standing wins.

...and If your school doesn't have a POPP table (yet), the NSW Education department has you covered with a list of other easy brain break ideas HERE.