A leading pediatricians’ organization releases updated guidance urging schools to protect children’s recess time, arguing that recess supports health, learning, and behavior. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) presents the guidance as schools have faced years of declining recess and less time for unstructured play. Several outlets report that the AAP’s updated policy statement is the first new guidance in more than a decade, marking a change from the organization’s prior recommendations.
The AAP says recess provides a “very powerful benefit,” citing benefits for physical activity and overall wellbeing, as well as potential positive effects on students’ attention, classroom behavior, and academic learning. The guidance also frames recess as important for children’s development across grade levels rather than only for younger students.
While the outlets focus on the rationale for protecting recess, they agree that the core message is for schools to prioritize keeping recess on the schedule and limiting practices that reduce or replace it.
