Parents are learning that recess time can be just as important as being inside the classrom.
Forty percent of elementary schools across the U.S. have either eliminated or considered eliminating recess.
Now that probably doesn’t sound like a big deal to you, because it reassures you that your kids are spending more time learning in school, but let’s be careful here…
Recess is a GOOD thing, believe it or not.
My professors tell me (and all their students) all the time that after about 30 minutes or so of studying, I should take a short break. Students learn better this way.
These are some of the reasons:
According to Change.org, recess can…
- Provide the opportunity for peer interaction
- Increase social skills and creative problem-solving
- Provides a break from focused academic activity
- Improve attention and retention of school material
Especially for younger kids, spending an hour sitting with school work can be, well, very boring. Adults need to understand that in order to keep kids interested in the material, they need some breaks every so often.
Do your kids’ schools still allow recess? Do you think recess is a good or bad thing? Share your thoughts with us and fellow parents in the comments below!
Why Kids Learn Less When Schools Get Rid Of Recess [Change]
