As the pace of the school year ramps up, it's easy to forget that we learn as much from activity as we do from moments of pause -- that the melody of motion can only shine when accompanied by the space between the notes. The stories below illustrate the learning potential of those moments of pause -- from a Danish classroom practice of sharing an hour and a piece of cake, to pre-K "Spiderman breaths" to a Nobel Laureate's letter of gratitude to his elementary school teacher. --Daniela

The Class's Hour... And A Piece of Cake

Every 6 to 16 year-old in the Denmark school system soaks in empathy lessons via its weekly "Klassen Time" (Class's Hour), and the accompanying piece of cake offered by a different classmate each week. Read Full Story »

Spiderman Breaths

"Breathe in, bring your fists to your chest. Breathe out, slowly, extending your arms, shooting out your webs whoosh!" Danielle Mahoney guides enthused pre-K kids in creative mindfulness exercises, like "Spiderman breaths". Read Full Story »

A Philosopher's Letter To His Teacher

After winning the Nobel Prize in 1957, philosopher Albert Camus thanks his mother first and an elementary school teacher second in this touching gratitude note. Read Full Story »

'Be The Change' Idea

Write a note of gratitude to a teacher or mentor in your life. [more]