The Case for Recess

As we enter the month of elementary high-stakes standardized testing, teachers, parents and students alike go in to high-anxiety mode. Teachers are worried the students have not had time to cover the entire curriculum; parents are worried their child is properly prepared for the test; students are wondering why all the adults are so nervous.

One way to offset this high-anxiety is to provide additional opportunities for “down-time” throughout the day. Recess allows students to engage in play activities of their choice. At our school, recess is given the same priority in our schedule as any other subject we teach. The students are left to their friends, their imagination and a couple of balls to de-stress and have some fun. These breaks in the day help students refocus, recharge and reengage more effectively when in the classroom. Students are allotted 20 minutes of recess each day in their schedule. However, during this time of year we make it a priority to do additional breaks to alleviate anxiety and keep students fresh.

During the weeks leading up to the test in our school, we take a mid-day lap around the outside of the building to clear our minds. In between subjects we do a “free-dance” break. Specialists (Art, PE, Music) also provide additional recess time throughout the day for students to get outside and de-stress. During testing we make it a point to have an extra amount of down time. Weather permitting we head outside; otherwise we make opportunities to engage in relaxing activities in the classroom. Multiple breaks through the day during this stressful time helps students and teachers alike put the testing in perspective and alleviate some of the pressure of the high-stakes standardized tests.

We all want to see students excel. Recess can help students improve focus and relieve stress. Now more than ever, our students need recess.

What do you think? Tell us what you think about the need for recess in schools!

Posted by Heidi Smith

on May 6, 2014