Used to be that recess was a time for kids to hang out and take a break from sitting in a chair all day. Used to be that kids received their dose of physical activity in a daily PE class. But those good old days are gone. Physical Education has been watered down so much that the challenge is not to get out of it but to be part of it!
In comes 'the new Recess'. All of a sudden the role that recess time plays in schools have been expanded and structured. The start was the Wellness Act implemented by the Bush administration (toothless legislation as no money or penelties were built into it). It mandated structured, supervised recess time for 30 minutes a day in schools as part of a comprehensive school wellness plan.
Several companies such as Playworks jumped on board to develop activities to include before- and after school recess times. These programs focus on good sportmanship, character building, team participation, and fighting obesity. In essence, it provides for structured play and involves participation from all teachers - not just PE specialists. A new set of teachers are taught the fundamental benefits of physical activity.
It is a known fact that children need a time, place, and space to release pent-up energy. Active recess serves as a time to generate fresh blood to the brain to highten concentration and focus in the classroom. This leads to fewer conflicts in class and nurture natural leaders. Many programs allow well-behaved students to become junior coaches to lead or teach recess activities.
It is easy to support structured recess if it get kids moving. Let us all embrace and encourage it.
Michael Cordier
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