The Patchogue-Medford School District recently announced it would be doubling recess time for its students, allowing elementary-school children 40 minutes of pla
y as opposed to 20. Since being implemented at the beginning of the school year, the move has already shown benefits, with parents and educators saying children seem happier and more focused when they return to the classroom.
With the ever-evolving state of education, increasing time for kids to be kids is a welcome move that should be adopted by more districts. Not all learning can be done within the confines of a classroom, and students need unstructured time to play, explore and socialize. Many students have reported being stressed and anxious due to increased testing, and the chance for a break can give children a welcome reprieve from their workload and an outlet for their energy. Research has shown that recess also helps build social skills, as children get the chance to meet new friends in addition to learning conflict-resolution and inclusive behavior.
The chance to have 40 minutes of play five days a week also promotes physical health, helping to fight childhood obesity, as well as encouraging students to maintain active lifestyles after school and into adulthood. Teachers see the benefits, too, as students who return from an outdoor break often return less restless and more focused.
I don’t remember any of the tests I took in elementary school, but I do remember spending time on the playground swings, playing jump rope, being terrible at kickball and the old metal jungle gym all the kids fought to perch on top of. Let’s not deny our students a chance at those same memories of what childhood is supposed to be like.
