calming after-lunch craziness

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calming after-lunch craziness
By Carolyn

You have described a problem which affects us all. Somehow, the kids change from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde after lunch--the sugar demons attack, or something like that. Energy levels are definitely at a high level at this
time.
My advice to you: Is there any way you can change your recess schedule so that you aren't going immediately after lunch? My students have lunch from 11:20-11:45, then we go back to the classroom. Once in the classroom, the kids sit quietly at their seats while I read a story to them. This has a tremendous calming effect upon the children. They draw pictures of what I am reading,

usually, and they relax. By the time I am finished reading--fifteen minutes later--they are ready to get out their social studies book and get started on class. I don't take the students out until 12:45. In this way, I am breaking up some of the schedule. I have always found out that lunchroom to playground does get them wound up, so if you can make a change there, I am sure you will see results.

If you can't change your recess, shut off the lights when they come in and read to them. Play soft, classical music while they have their heads on their desks for a few minutes. This will work wonders.

Let us know how things go for you.