Recess

It was interesting to see several television reports recently about recess. There is now some research to validate the value of recess. At the same time separate data shows that one third of schools no longer have recess. (I wonder how many physical education classes are also no longer part of a school day/week.)
The reasons most mentioned to eliminate recess are cost and the importance of test scores. Unofficially, I have heard it mentioned that the bully issue will go away if recess is eliminated.
As a parent and a teacher I feel recess is a must and may I add even in snowy cold weather. When dressed appropriately, a child is able to gain many benefits. One of them is learning how to dress (the choice of what to wear) as well as learning how to dress him/herself. It involves simple things like recognizing one’s own clothes, making sure said clothes are right side out, learning the sequence to dressing, (reversing to undress) how to zip and button (developing fine motor skills), being patient if help is needed, and being persistent in trying and learning. All this practiced even before getting out the door! When out the door, there is multiple learning and developing taking place as well as fresh air/ exercise of the entire body/ sun- vitamins C and D, along with social, sport, and physical development.
Recess is not down time but rather a change of pace. Physical exercise energizes-helping the blood flow and muscle development. As adults we all know that change reduces stress. Consider that Alzheimer’s research is showing that activity more than just mental activity helps strengthen connections and improves/maintain muscles in all people. Arthritis experts say exercise is needed to keep the joints healthy and retain movement. What about the crisis of obesity???? These are all issues that begin long before we see the obvious symptoms. Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Education experts all talk about the core (larger muscles) and working then to smaller muscles- the importance of movement and developing connections within the body and brain.
What are we thinking when we take away opportunities such as recess and physical education? If an adult works outside the home, laws are in place that allow for a break every so many hours. Children too need the break- many would say even more. A child is developing and growing physically, (that includes the brain), socially, and emotionally as well as cognitively all day each day.
Children returning from recess are vitalized- it is a great time to teach new material as everyone is alert and the blood is flowing.
Something to consider- Most children enter the classroom in the morning after having been driven to school by bus or private car. Many of the children are in latch key before and after school as well. With, previous generations most children walked to school. Children need movement (along with a healthy breakfast) to help get that jumpstart for a busy day. Some educators in an elementary situation have students do some form of movement before even beginning the day however many do not, especially as the child gets older. Expectations are continually more academically heavy for our students. In the past the concern was always developing the whole child: remembering social, emotional, physical, as well as the cognitive. It appears that adults are not considering the whole child or the multitude of benefits of recess.