All work and no play isn’t healthy for anyone. Everyone needs to take a break from their work, whether it’s to rest, recharge, or refocus. Sometimes, it’s simply needed to socialize. Kids need this just as much as adults, especially during the rigorous school day. Recess is a time for students to step outside the regular classroom expectations and begin applying skills in a social playtime atmosphere. The structured and monitored free time allows students to play or focus on their personal interests.
Here are three ways in which recess can be beneficial to kids’ learning in school.
RECHARGE
Expectations are very high for children in school. They learn new concepts and lessons every day. The attention and focus required takes a lot of the kids’ energy. Recess allows students to rest their minds with play, exercise, and socialization. An active break lets them rest their minds and prepares them for improved focus when they return to the classroom. .
EXPLORE
Recess gives students the opportunity to explore the subjects and topics that personally interest them. It can be a time for independent reading or research, or a time to work on creative projects that excite them. Students can improve skills and knowledge and learn to discover on their own time.
SOCIALIZE & EXERCISE
Engaging in sports and games teaches kids how to play with others and incorporates exercise into their daily routines. These healthy life lessons add to their ability to refocus on schoolwork once they are back inside the classroom. Regardless of the choice of activity, kids receive time at recess to interact with each other. The social experiences gained during recess are as crucial to their development as academic learning.
Recess is key to kids’ success in school. It provides a chance to recharge, explore and play to benefit their work in the classroom. So have fun!