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Why Recess Is Important

How to Resolve Behavioral Problems

School leaders may consider shortening or eliminating recess because of the behavior problems that often occur during that time. Principals reported in a 2010 Gallup survey that a majority of behavior issues (89%) happen during recess.

Sociologist Rebecca London said in a Harvard EdCast episode that teachers often say students come back from recess upset or unable to focus because of something that happened during recess. One way schools can prevent bullying and other negative experiences is by having organized recess.

“Organized recess is an opportunity for there to be a lot of free choice, different kinds of games available, but organized in a way so that everybody has a chance to play, everybody can be included, and everyone has a chance to have fun,” London said.

There are two parts to organized recess, London explained. The first is having teachers set up a variety of games and activities for students to freely join in or opt-out of at their discretion. The second is having teachers participate in playtime.

“Not all adults who are out there monitoring recess want to throw on their tennis shoes and run around and play basketball with kids,” London acknowledged. “But they could help kids to resolve conflicts when they arise as they do when children play. There’s always going to be a conflict, is the ball in, is the ball out? Help them to resolve those conflicts. They can be a positive supporter of play. They can cheer for kids, they can remind them to play fair, they can remind them to pass the ball, they can do inactive ways of supporting play, like turning a jump rope. I’ve seen a lot of adults standing on play yards, turning jump ropes and getting to know the kids that way.”

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Another way to combat the behavioral issues that might arise during recess is to incorporate a SEL program into your curriculum to teach students good playground behavior. Studies Weekly Well-Being includes lessons on good communication skills (week 12), how to handle conflict (week 11), and show respect (week 31), which can help prevent bullying and playground fights.

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