I have so many incredibly fond memories of my elementary school days. Things like…laughing in the school yard with my girlfriends, learning how to Double Dutch and Chinese jump rope, and playing all of those outdoor games I miss to this day –freeze tag, hop scotch, red light green light, just to name a few. The one thing these memories all have in common is the fact that they took place during recess – daily! I grew up in Queens, New York, so little things like cold weather or even snow never got in the way. It was our dose of fresh air, our mid-day break, it was the highlight of our days.
So imagine my surprise when I learned that my daughter’s former school did not have recess every day! As much as I loved the school, I had a MAJOR issue with this. I remember one day I was volunteering in the cafeteria the day after a break and amidst all of the noise making, restlessness, and pure chaos, I shouted, “These kids need recess!” Plus, besides the obvious element of recess such as it being a fun release for the kids and the need for socialization, there is also scientific proof out there highlighting the physical and cognitive benefits of recess.
Despite this, however, there are still several parents who disagree with the idea of recess being a necessity. In fact, there are several really hot parenting debates going on right now and TheGeniusofPlay.org is helping to foster the conversation. Parents across the country are sounding off with their opinions on these popular topics and the debate is heating up!
Check out these videos below and join in the conversation!
Should schools need to allow more play – including recess?
Do Sports Count as Play?
Should Kids Play Unsupervised?
How Much of Kid Time Should Involve Screens?
Learn more about the Genius of Play initiative! Follow them on Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/geniusofplay
- https://twitter.com/TheToyAssoc
- https://www.instagram.com/geniusofplay/
I personally think playtime should be increased, especially for children under 10! + for kids that are older, less time in front of screens and more sports and fitness incorporated! Get them passionate about activities that don’t involve double tapping!
Oh man I totally agree with Sian! I am a teacher and I need my kids to get their energy out! The endorphins that are released when exercising are amazing and everyone feels better! I teach high school and in California kids only need 2 years of PE. I think they need 4 years to be honest!
I think playtime should be increased. That creative time is impossible to their development…
I really couldn’t agree with you more! To me it’s so ridiculous that the school systems take recess away. Kids minds need a break, just like we do. Plus they need to channel that energy somewhere! And yes, I believe it should be increased as well. Great post!
I so agree, I think physical activities are far more important, than class room work. With gadgets and stuff, looks like kids are doing lesser and lesser physical activities.
I completely agree! Children learn best through play . My sons classroom isnso much different than when I was a kid because so much of their learning is through organized play. It teaches them to use their own ideas and draw their own conclusions. Love it
Play time is equally important as study time, schools are meant for the all round development of the child, and being a child Psychologist myself and being associated with schools for a long time I have to say it’s also about the stress buster hormones ( endorphins) that are a direct result of physical activity, needless to mention about the social skills that children learn while playing. The informal atmosphere of recess is conducive for all this.
From,
http://www.thegypsygurl.wordpress.com
I would actually insist that my future kids get recess too.. I think when it’s all work and no play it’s actually worst for kids to enjoy their time and to love what their learning