The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released its first updated policy statement in 13 years, urging schools to protect recess as a critical component of children's health and academic success. The guidance comes amid a concerning decline in recess time and worsening child well-being.
Why Recess Matters
Dr. Robert Murray, a lead author of the statement, emphasized that free play has always been supported by pediatricians but is increasingly threatened by pressures to boost test scores. "Recess has a very powerful benefit if it’s used to the fullest," he said. The new guidance, published in the journal Pediatrics, cites recent research showing that breaks between concentrated learning help the brain store information, while also allowing children to navigate relationships and build confidence.
Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Recess also plays a key role in preventing childhood obesity, which affects about 1 in 5 U.S. children and teens. The AAP recommends that recess should never be withheld for academic or punitive reasons. "If the child is disruptive or rude and disrespectful, recess is one of the things that teachers use to punish kids," Murray noted, adding that students struggling with behavior or grades often need recess the most.
Since the mid-2000s, up to 40% of school districts have reduced or eliminated recess, according to data from Springboard to Active Schools and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recess duration now varies widely, from less than 10 minutes to over an hour daily, with older children typically getting less time.
Recommendations for Schools
Studies suggest children should receive a minimum of 20 minutes of recess per day, with multiple breaks. Countries like Denmark, Japan, and the UK provide breaks every 45 to 50 minutes of instruction. "They should get a long enough period of time where they can de-stress and blow off steam and prepare for the next class," Murray said.
Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, a childhood obesity expert at Mass General Brigham for Children, welcomed the updated recommendations. She noted that her 8-year-old son learned basketball at recess and now loves the game. "As kids get older, they’re more on their screens. So it’s really helpful for outdoor activity and recess to be happening," she said. "Recess is great. We all kind of need recess."
