The Case for Elementary School Recess

Abstract:
This case discusses the belief that recess is vital to the child's overall healthy development. It offers parents, teachers, and school administrators information that supports the need for elementary school recess. Four points are made for recess. First, recess responds to a child's social and emotional needs. It reduces anxiety and helps manage stress. Second, recess contributes to a child's cognitive and intellectual needs. It reduces how much students fidget; unstructured play allows for wonder, exploration, and creativity; allows oxygen to nourish the brain; children learn about their environment and how to act socially and how to cooperate with one another. Third, recess is not an alien word in the adult vocabulary, nor an abnormal response to physical and mental needs. For example, judges call for a recess when courtroom participants become tired or unfocused and congressional sessions recesses. The final point - children need a school recess.


Date Published: 2/17/1999

Pages: 2

Location Code: 17104