Recess: A Vital Break for Children’s Health and Learning
Recess might seem like just a break from class, but doctors say skipping it can hurt children far more than losing a few minutes of playtime. The American Academy of Pediatrics has released new advice urging schools to prioritize recess, stressing its important benefits for kids’ health, education, and behavior.
Dr. Robert Murray, who helped write the guidance, shares that recess is crucial for helping students recharge between lessons, leading to better focus and memory. It serves as a vital time for kids to develop social skills, grow their confidence, and engage in physical activity, which is especially important since 1 in 5 children and teens in the U.S. face obesity issues.
Unfortunately, over the years, many schools have been cutting back on recess time. Data shows that approximately 40% of school districts have reduced or eliminated recess since the mid-2000s. Now, advocates are calling for at least 20 minutes of daily recess along with multiple breaks throughout the school day. They also warn against using recess as a form of punishment.
Dr. Murray points out that when kids misbehave, teachers often take away recess, even though those students might benefit from it the most.
Recess is not just essential for younger kids either. As screen time rises, older students also need time to disconnect, move around, and recharge. Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, a pediatric specialist, emphasizes the importance of outdoor play, especially as older children are spending more time on devices. “Recess is great. We all kind of need recess,” she said.
Countries like Denmark, Japan, and the UK already provide students with more frequent breaks, typically after 45 to 50 minutes of instruction. Experts believe that adopting similar practices in U.S. schools could enhance both learning and overall student well-being.
In summary, protecting and prioritizing recess is essential for the healthy development of children, providing them with the necessary time to learn, play, and grow.
