How do I keep myself cool in class?

As the temperature rises during the final weeks before summer break, it becomes increasingly hard to stay cool in the classroom and in turn hard to stay focused. Research shows keeping kids focused before summer break has big implications for what they remember when they return, so uses these tips to stay cool.

How do I keep myself cool in class?

Minimize Using Lights

Lights are heat-inducing, so keep the lights off whenever possible. In addition, you and your classroom will be helping the environment as well.

Cooling Breaks

Studies show that small breaks in-between instruction helps students retain information better, so take advantage of this by using small breaks to cool down. Let students cool down with a misting fan, electric fans, or even ice packs if possible.

Avoid Movement

During the warmest parts of the day, such as noon, avoid doing projects and playing games until later in the afternoon when the sun is less aggressive.

Utilize the Computer Lab

The temperature-controlled environment of the computer lab, if your school has one, means it's the coolest place in school. You might have to fight other teachers for the time, but winning the battle is definitely worth it in the upcoming hot weeks. If you don't have a computer lab, but host a variety of technology in your classroom, the next tip is important for you.

Switch Unused Electronics Off

Make sure all unused electronics that live in the classroom are turned off so that extra heat is not created, since electronics will generate heat while on or in stand-by mode.

Invest In Fans

Since you're reading these tips, chances are your classroom isn't equipped with air conditioning, or it is and it just doesn't cut it. Invest in fans, and do so early before prices spike as demand increases. According to eHow.com, four electronic fans usually do the trick for the average classroom size. 

Compiled by Nicole Gorman, Education World Contributor

05/08/2015

As students and educators head back to school, an uninvited visitor is joining them: summer heat. Much of the country is experiencing a late summer heatwave, sending temperatures to possible record highs. Teaching students in hot, uncomfortable classrooms is difficult, and many schools don’t have adequate air conditioning.

Here are some ways to help keep everyone cool in the classroom:

  • Minimize using overhead lights (instead, turn off the lights and use lamps or Christmas lights)
  • Close shades to block intense sunlight
  • Take cool-down breaks between lessons
  • Avoid excess movement during the hottest part of the day
  • Utilize a climate-controlled computer lab
  • Switch off unused electronics that produce heat even in standby mode
  • Invest in fans to cool the room

It’s also important for you and your students to stay hydrated. The Centers for Disease Control and Environment advises avoiding sugary and calorie-laden sports and soft drinks when the temperature rises. Water is the best way to hydrate the body, and it helps with cooling. Make sure your students always have easy access to water.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also warns against students engaging in physical exercise in extreme heat because they can overheat quicker than adults. However, if your students engage in physical activity, it is crucial to know the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Heat Exhaustion

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Cold, pale and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fainting

Heatstroke

  • High body temperature (above 103 degrees)
  • Hot, red, dry or moist skin
  • Rapid and strong pulse
  • Possible unconsciousness

It’s important to note the key differences in treating each illness. Heat exhaustion can be treated by moving the victim to a cool location. Apply cool wet cloths and having them sip water. Heatstroke can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention.

Educators can beat the heat with these cool lesson plans for hot days:

  • Study the buoyancy of various objects in the water
  • Learn about water displacement of various objects
  • Create various devices that will float in water
  • Determine the best methods of keeping an ice cube frozen
  • Study cold weather areas like Iceland or Antarctica

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.800.800.9410 or www.calcas.com.

How do I stop feeling hot at school?

How to stay cool in summer.
Stay hydrated with lots of water..
Use ice packs to keep cool..
Stay in the shade as far as possible..
Wear sunscreen, even if you aren't in the sun..
Wear protective clothing: long, loose sleeves and trousers in light colours to help you stay cool..

What is the trick to stay cool?

Wear loose and lightweight clothing. Looser clothing is always better for the summer heat. Try to wear cotton whenever possible. Cotton absorbs moisture and helps your body to stay cool in the summer heat. In a loose cotton t-shirt, you can enjoy the warm weather without feeling uncomfortable.

How do you make yourself cold in a hot classroom?

staying cool in the classoom.
Have fans on in the classroom – put frozen water bottles or ice packs in front of it too! ... .
Teach outside in the shade – catch the breeze if there is one!.
No socks and shoes on in the classroom and encourage shorts and t shirts be worn..
Hand out ice pops or lollies at break times..

How do you stay cool without overheating?

Everyone should take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and death during hot weather:.
Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as you can..
Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty..
Schedule outdoor activities carefully. ... .
Take cool showers or baths to cool down..