Researcher Outlines Optimal Recess Strategies: Insights into Effective Recess Management
In a radical shift in the way we approach education, community-engaged researcher and professor of sociology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, Rebecca London, has advocated for a reevaluation of the importance of recess in schools.
London believes that recess should not just be a break from the school day, but a space for healing and connection for all children. She emphasizes that recess, when well-implemented, can support children's development, including academic, social, emotional, and physical development.
According to London, recess provides an opportunity for children to practice social and emotional skills outside the classroom, which can be beneficial throughout their lives. This is particularly important for skills like conflict resolution, collaboration, and communication, which she argues are essential for a well-rounded education.
The Global Recess Alliance, founded by London and colleagues from around the world, promotes this vision. The alliance, which includes founding member countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa, advocates for dedicated and sufficient recess, seeing it as essential for all children throughout their school years.
The ideal number of recesses per day, according to the Global Recess Alliance, is more than one, with a minimum of two breaks: one in the morning, one at lunch, and one in the afternoon. This approach, they argue, can save teachers instructional time by reducing the need to help students work through hurt feelings or anger after recess.
London recommends a concept called facilitated recess, which includes free choice, opportunities for different games, specific zones, appropriate equipment, and safe places for students to sit and talk. Adults, she suggests, should be engaged in supporting youth during recess, such as initiating or maintaining games, modeling good social and emotional skills, and helping with scaffolding, including conflict resolution.
However, not all schools prioritize recess. More than half of states in the U.S. do not require schools to include recess. Even in states that do require recess, the majority only require 20 minutes out of the whole school day.
London expresses concern about the disparities in recess time, particularly for Black students, especially Black boys, and Native American students, especially boys, who are disciplined more heavily and are more likely to have recess withheld.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Global Recess Alliance are expected to release statements in support of recess and healthy recess practices. London, who launched the Global Recess Alliance in 2020, has expressed interest in observing recess in Finland, where there is 15 minutes of recess for every hour of instruction.
From a nutrition perspective, it's recommended for children to play first, then eat during recess to encourage them to actually eat their food. London emphasizes the importance of training adults in how to create and maintain healthy play environments for children.
In conclusion, London's research and the work of the Global Recess Alliance highlight the importance of recess in children's development and overall well-being. By providing a space for children to interact, play, and learn essential skills, recess can contribute significantly to a well-rounded education.
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