A Better Way to Talk About Break

Hey y’all,

Let’s talk about that moment when we come back from a break—spring, winter, summer, whatever—and we’re trying to reconnect with our students. Maybe you’ve done it too: we ask, “Where did you go?” or “What did you do over break?” It seems innocent enough, right?

But here’s the thing: those questions can unintentionally put kids on the spot. Not every student traveled. Not every student had a break, to be honest. And when the question is framed around big experiences, the ones with less access can start to shrink in their seats—or start making things up just to keep up.

So here’s something I’ve been doing instead, and it works beautifully: Ask about the senses.

Try it:

• “What’s one thing you smelled, tasted, felt, heard, or saw during break?”

You’ll be amazed at what students share. It could be the smell of their grandma’s fried plantains, the sound of cousins laughing way too late at night, the feeling of sunshine on their skin after weeks of cold. These questions create space for everyone to contribute—regardless of where they went (or didn’t go).

And if you want to make it even more inclusive? Ask them to pick 3 out of the 5 senses. That way, students with disabilities or sensory differences can participate in a way that feels authentic and comfortable. It’s a small shift that makes a huge difference in building community and honoring each voice in the room.

AfroFranco Teacher Collective fam—y’all already know! Check the shared Google Drive for the full lesson plan, story script, and… I kid you not… approximately 10 billion (give or take) activities to go with it. I can’t wait to unpack it all with you at our next meeting.

Keep creating those spaces where students feel seen, heard, and safe.

Talk soon,

Ben

AfroFranco Teacher Collective