Take 5

Take 5 is an area of the class designated for reflection, refocus, and/or relaxation. When implemented appropriately students come to understand that take 5 is not a punishment, nor a reward. I both allow my students to elect to take 5, in addition I also request that students take five. When I make the request I indicate if the students should:

"Take 5 and Reflect"- by filling out a reflection form for my review, used when a student is being disruptive (follows verbal warning and precedes call home).

"Take 5 and Refocus"- meaning take your work to the take 5 area and get back to the task at hand, I always make sure to check on the student's progress after 5 minutes.

"Take 5 and Relax"- used when student is wound up, or ready to explode at a peer. In this case I have the following objects for them to use when relaxing.

 

Stress ball, and a goofy stuffed animal that the kids like

 

Chill Skills, prompts in a jar by Free Spirit Publishing

 

Positive Affirmations, and Post It's so the students can record their affirmation if they wish.

 

Leadership cards from Free Spirit Publishing

 

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens by Richard Carlson

 

A Guy's Guide to Life by Jason Boyett

 

Respect, A Girls Guide.... By Courtney Macavinta & Andrea Vander Pluym

 

Mandalas and Colored Pencils

Time Lapse Video- Mandala

 

 

 

Other Options:

 

Mini Journal

 

 

Healing Crystals (though I hand these out as apposed to having them stay in the take 5 area)

 

 

Oragami (simple designs, for students who need something tactile)

 

 

Calm Jar (examples available online, tip- glue the lid on)

 

 

Mad libs

 

 

Brainteasers: Sudoku, Word Search, etc.

 

 

Rubik Cube

 

 

*When a student is in take 5 be sure to set a timer, otherwise the privilege of using the space can be abused for more then just a 5 minute re-set. Remove object from take 5, and review the rules for the space if students are not using the time appropriately. Always allow for the opportunity to earn back lost privileges.