For the first time in over a decade, a leading pediatricians group has released new guidance emphasizing that recess is crucial for both physical and mental health, as well as academic success, for students of all ages.
New Recess Recommendations
The updated policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics, published in the journal Pediatrics, comes after years of shrinking recess periods and worsening children's health. The group stresses that unstructured playtime is essential for brain function, social skills, and emotional well-being.
Benefits of Recess
Dr. Robert Murray, a lead author of the statement, explained that recess offers powerful benefits when used fully. New evidence shows that children need breaks between concentrated learning to help the brain retain information. Recess also allows kids to navigate relationships and build confidence, which is equally important for older students.
Physical activity during recess helps prevent obesity, which now affects about 1 in 5 U.S. children and teens. The pediatricians recommend that recess be protected and never withheld for academic or punitive reasons, as struggling students often need it most.
Current State of Recess
Since the mid-2000s, up to 40% of school districts have reduced or eliminated recess. The duration varies widely, from less than 10 minutes to over an hour daily, with older kids generally getting less time. Ideally, children should have a minimum of 20 minutes per day and multiple breaks. In countries like Denmark, Japan, and the UK, students get breaks every 45-50 minutes of instruction.
Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, a childhood obesity expert at Mass General Brigham for Children, supports the updated guidance. She notes that as kids get older, they spend more time on screens, making outdoor activity and recess even more important. "Recess is great. We all kind of need recess," she said.
