Why Recess Makes Kids Smarter

According to second grader, Allison Rincand, her favorite activity at school, "Recess, because I get to play with my friends." Her response mirrors the majority of children in elementary school where over 80% of students rate recess as their favorite subject.

 

For decades most people have assumed that recess was unimportant, and it's primary contribution was a "break" in the school day for teachers and for students to get a drink and use the restroom. Going out to play was a way to extend the time needed to accomplish the above tasks.

 

True, like Allison, students loved it but many educators and parents alike thought recess was of little value to the developing child.   However, a growing body of research indicates that recess plays a critical role in healthy child development.   Best of all, from a child's perspective it's fun!   Continue Reading......... 

 

U.S. Map Stencil Winners-December 2013 Announced

Do you know that Peaceful Playgrounds has a variety of free resources to improve your playground and get kids active?  Below are a few that you may want to check out.

1. Right to Recess Campaign Materials Kit. Need help in saving recess?  Want to know what the research says?  Need support and position statements from professional organizations like the National PTA and the Society of Health and Physical Education (SHAPE formally AAHPERD)?

2. Comfortable Cafeterias.  Comfortable Cafeteria goals are to improve learning, behavior and student health.  Find out how.

3. Painting Playground Markings.  What to know some tips and tricks for painting games on your playground? 

4. Physical Activity in School Resources. Due to the childhood obesity crisis, the public is looking to schools to utilize every opportunity to expose children to physical activity programming.  Here's how....

5.  Playground Supervision.  Playground supervision plays a critical role in keeping all kids safe at school.   Yet, only a small number of playground supervisors receive any training on their roles and responsibilities.

6. Recess Before Lunch Materials.  A few brave principals across the nation are bringing a long standing school tradition to an end. They are advocating recess before lunch. We have videos, materials and research on this topic. 

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