A Case for Recess

Education

“Every child should have time for arts, music, sports, drama, robotics, school newspapers and the like, not to mention recess and play.” - Chris Gabrieli (An American Education Policy and Innovation Leader)

According to CDC Healthy Schools recess promotes healthy behaviors.

• Recess benefits students by:
• Increasing their level of physical activity.
• Improving their memory, attention, and concentration.
• Helping them stay on-task in the classroom.
• Reducing disruptive behavior in the classroom.
• Improving their social and emotional development (e.g., learning how to share and negotiate).

Studies show that recess has a positive impact on focus, attention, and mood for a child. Similarly, adults report increased mental clarity and a better disposition after a brisk walk or a trip to the gym. In addition, adults and children alike learn better when they take frequent breaks rather than concentrating for long stretches.

 RESOURCE

 The national non-profit organization Playworks—headquartered in Oakland, CA— is a leader in recess design and operation. Playworks created a free tool for gauging recess quality called the Great Recess Framework and has other resources available such as a game library and information on how to incorporate play into social[1]emotional and academic learning.

Breaks and work performance: two sides of the same coin.  You will find that you are more productive when you incorporate more breaks in your day. Read More via Better Up