Ask Most Students their favorite part of the school day? “Recess!”

Getting outside for unstructured play is beneficial and not the same as a structured physical education class. Whether it is running around, socializing, or explaining the rules of a complex playground game an outdoor break provides the benefit of fresh air and sunshine both noted for increasing health and mood leading to increased learning and productivity. Recess or outside break time for students can reduce stress levels and allows students a bit of time to relax. Additionally, such opportunities enable students to continue the school day with a boost to creativity and problem-solving. We know as adults that to be most productive, we need to schedule a few breaks in our workday. “There is this assumption that if you keep kids working longer, they will learn more,” says educator Olag Jarrett. “It’s misguided.” Jarrett reports that no research supports the notion that…