More Recess

by Jill
(Arizona)

At Knox Elementary school in Chandler Arizona my child gets two 20 minute recess sessions a day. The teachers love this because the kids are much more able to learn when they return to the classroom. The physical activity stimulates the heart, gets the blood flowing to the brain, and makes learning easier.

Two twenty minute sessions a day is still not enough, he gets the rest at home. We go for walks, ride bikes and play ball after school.

It’s been said that recess is not just a waist of time for kids, aside from the exercise of course. The playground is also where kids learn valuable life skills involving social interaction, emotional and cognitive development and lessons in stress management.

I vote to have all schools, grades k-5 at least, to have at least two twenty minute recesses. It’s good for the kids.