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Timing is Everything: How SRV Adapts to Kids’ Rhythms for Optimal Learning

30 Minute Naps...

Timing is everything—well, maybe not everything, but it’s pretty important, especially when it comes to kids. At The School in Rose Valley (SRV), we’ve always been attuned to the rhythms of children and how timing affects their learning and well-being. A great example is our daily schedule. In the middle of the day, we have recess, lunch, and then quiet time—play, eat, rest. This isn’t just a random sequence; it’s a rhythm that’s been fine-tuned over the years to support our students in the best way possible.

It turns out that even President Lyndon Johnson was a fan of a well-timed break. He was known for his afternoon siestas, which followed a productive morning of work. After a quick swim or walk, he’d take a 30-minute nap before diving back into his day. It’s a reminder that taking breaks at the right time can make all the difference.



The Science Behind Perfect Timing

I’ve always been fascinated by the science of timing and how it impacts our lives. When Daniel Pink’s book When came out in 2018, I couldn’t wait to read it. He and his team spent two years combing through over 700 studies, exploring everything from psychology to economics, to uncover the hidden science of timing. As I read it, I found myself thinking about our students and how Pink’s research could apply to them.

One of the most striking ideas in When is how our brains process information differently at various times of the day. According to Pink, analytical tasks are best tackled in the morning, while creative pursuits are better saved for the afternoon and early evening. This insight has big implications for how we structure the school day.

For example, we might consider scheduling subjects that require heavy analytical thinking, like math, earlier in the day, while leaving more creative classes, like art or music, for later. It’s all about aligning activities with when our brains are most naturally equipped to handle them.

Timing and Teenage Rhythms

Timing doesn’t just vary by task; it can also vary by age. Anyone who’s ever tried to get a teenager out of bed early knows they’re often at odds with the typical school schedule. That’s because teenagers have a unique circadian rhythm that’s different from adults or younger kids. Their internal clocks naturally push them to stay up later and sleep in longer, which can make those early mornings tough on their bodies and minds.

In fact, there’s growing research showing that early start times for high school students can negatively impact their physical and mental health, as well as their learning abilities. Some schools have responded by pushing their start times later, which helps accommodate teenagers’ natural rhythms. It’s a good example of how timing and flexibility can support better learning outcomes.

Understanding Individual Patterns

Of course, every child is unique. Some kids are natural early birds, while others are night owls. Observing these patterns in your own children can be incredibly insightful. It’s worth thinking about how their natural rhythms align with their schedules, both at home and at school.

By paying attention to these patterns, we can find ways to better support their needs. At SRV, we’re committed to creating an environment that’s responsive to each child’s individual rhythm. We’re always looking for ways to adjust and make learning as natural and enjoyable as possible.

At the end of the day, timing might not be everything, but it’s certainly a key ingredient in helping our students thrive. Whether it’s a well-timed recess or aligning our classes with when kids are most naturally ready to learn, we know that the right timing can make all the difference.

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