More Recess, Better Learning?: Pediatricians Push for More Playtime in Schools

A new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics is reigniting the debate over recess in schools — and many suburban Chicago parents may find themselves nodding along.

In updated guidance published this month in the journal Pediatrics, pediatric experts say recess is far more than just a break from class. They argue that unstructured playtime is essential for children’s mental health, social development, physical activity and even academic performance.

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The policy marks the first major update on recess from the pediatric group in more than a decade. Doctors and child development experts say many schools across the country have reduced recess time in recent years because of academic testing pressures and packed classroom schedules.

“Recess is not a luxury or a reward, but rather it’s an essential part of learning, health, and development for children of all ages,”Zishan Khan, MD, a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with Mindpath Health, told Parents Magazine. “The message has shifted from ’recess is good' to ‘recess is necessary and should be protected.’”

The academy now recommends that children get at least 20 minutes of recess daily — ideally with multiple breaks throughout the school day — and says recess should never be taken away as punishment.

Researchers say students tend to return to class more focused and ready to learn after recess. The report also highlights benefits including improved social skills, reduced stress and more opportunities for physical activity at a time when many children spend increasing hours on screens.

Robin Kollman, director of communications for Libertyville Elementary District 70, said all grades from kindergarten through 8th grade have a formal recess block and also get regular in-classroom movement breaks, according to the Daily Herald.

“These short bursts of activity are scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve memory retention by giving the brain a necessary ‘reset,’” Kollman said. “Libertyville School District 70 is fully aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ stance that ‘wakeful rest’ is essential for adolescent brain development.”

Some education advocates say the conversation is especially relevant in suburban districts where academic expectations continue to rise and students face longer school days, more homework and more screen-based learning.

What do you think? Should schools increase recess time for students? Let us know in the comments if you think more recess is needed in today’s schools.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.