Most schools, like with the U.S., are beginning to lack recess because they have trouble managing the amount of time that students are out of their classrooms. However, some schools within Asia and in Europe have benefited from having more time outside of the classroom each day. Research suggests that classrooms deprived of recess are often considered harder to manage. However, a recent study has found that there are several benefits to limiting recess time.
Some schools are becoming aware of how precious recess is to the students and their learning. This can be seen in places like New York who have recently added 15 minutes for recess so the students get a chance to play. The study suggested that the added time should allow for more free play and less structured activities, which will increase movement during the school day.
The article mentioned that U.S teachers are under pressure and times of stress due to poor resources, therefore, many teachers find it hard to teach with joy as they were in the past. This is one example of how recess and play has been removed from our schools which can lead to a stressful environment for students and teachers both.
1. Recess is a Good Way to Energize Students
Recess is about playing and having fun but it can also help to improve the performance in class. It allows students to shake off boredom and get rid of bad temper. Recess can also help kids solve their problems with other kids by communicating with one another. Along with physical activity, recess also offers time to reflect on what happened during class allowing them time to cool down and change their mindsets.
2. Recess Helps Kids Creatively
Recess can be a good way to creatively solve problems. For example, some kids begin to write stories and create art after recess. In order for kids to solve creative problems during their recess time, children must have time dedicated to play and interact with their peers. Additionally, children don’t always choose the best ways to deal with problems when they are put in front of them during class time.
3. Recess Can Help Students Work Through Conflicts!
Children can work through their conflicts during recess. Commonly, recess is used to help students solve their problems with study and social skills. The article stated that creative skills should be included in order for the kids to work through stories and artwork. Recess is also a place for children to spend their time apart from adults and teachers and enjoy the company of friends.
4. Recess Helps Children Become Sociable and Independent
Recess gives students a chance to become more sociable because they learn how to interact with other people, especially those outside of their comfort zone. With recess, some children tend to build friendships even outside of school. As kids become independent they are able to manage their time better during recess which helps them be more productive during class time.
5. Recess Helps Children Operate in the World
Recess is the best way for kids to understand how the world works and be able to apply knowledge and skills. During recess, students can experience a new lesson or subject through play. They must have time to play and learn without feeling any pressure from adults so that they can practice how to succeed when they are put in front of a problem during class time.
6. Recess Helps Students Have Fun!
Recess is a great escape from school where children are allowed to have fun, laugh and bond with one another while learning new things. However, recess by itself isn’t enough to keep them away from trouble if they aren’t careful. By having recess, teachers are also providing students with a break from the studies they are learning.
7. Recess Helps Children Develop Shelves!
Recess is good for development because children who get to play during recess explore new things and learn new skills from one another. Learning how to work through conflicts and work on their creativity help children become more independent and capable of dealing with problems when put in front of them in class. The article went on to explain how recess is beneficial for older students as well because it allows them to develop themselves and obtain social skills in order to be more successful when it comes time for professional life.
8. Recess Gives Teachers a Break
Teachers need a break too! During recess, teachers are able to step back and look at their own teaching styles. It allows them to reflect on their teaching and make decisions that can be helpful for their students. Especially for teachers who have had a long day of teaching, taking a nap or eating something helps to keep them going for the rest of the day. It gives teachers time to just be themselves without listening to children talk or making sure they are doing well in class. Although this seems like a small thing, without recess it would be more difficult for teachers to continue working throughout the year.
