Break Card

  

A “break card” can be used to benefit all students, including those with exceptionalities .Above is an example of a break card - however, depending on your class, the options may vary. In regards to the options - it is up to your professional judgement, and your relationship with your students to know what options will best suit your class. Agreements surrounding the break cards need to be created between teacher and students to ensure their safety. Essentially, a break card is allowing students to self regulate. They are aware that they are feeling overwhelmed and they can use these cards to communicate that with you. Providing the student with the responsibility to recognize their own emotions, the ability to take control of what they need and the option to silently communicate this with you, can be very beneficial. You and the students have mutual respect and trust in each other to use these break cards appropriately. The break card can be used to go for a walk, excuse themselves, get a snack, a drink, or do whatever they need to do to destress and regroup.

There is no cost to the teacher or school financially as the teach can use anything to make this break card. Any teacher can create a break card and adapt it to the needs of their students, making this a very good resource for teachers to use.

Below is an in depth resource on Break Card’s and the benefits that they have for your students in your class. 

https://ed-psych.utah.edu/school-psych/_documents/Break-Cards-How-to-Use-Them.pdf