Should Kids Have Recess Every Day?

Many students will soon have more time to play. A new law in California says public schools must give kids at least 30 minutes of recess each day. Other states, like Illinois and Washington, have similar laws. 

Some health experts say recess helps kids reach an important goal of getting an hour of physical activity each day. They also point out that playing during recess can help kids make new friends.  

But others argue that too much recess eats into learning time. Some schools have cut down on recess. They use the extra time to teach subjects like math and reading.

After kids have been sitting in class, it’s good to go outside, run around with friends, and stretch your muscles. My friends and I love playing soccer, basketball, foursquare, and other games. Recess also gives kids free time to hang out with friends. It’s one of the only times in the school day when kids can rest their brains. And that can help us focus better in class.

We have recess every day at my school, but I don’t think we need to. When the weather is too hot or too cold, playing outdoors isn’t very fun. We get plenty of exercise during gym class anyway. Plus, teachers in gym class make sure we’re being respectful to each other and no one is getting bullied. During recess, bullying is more likely to happen since the time is less structured.