More Play in Schools?
Disclaimer: This is a compensated post. All opinions are my own.
Children spend most of their waking hours at school and are expected to be productive all day long. Many schools in New York City have cut back on the arts and physical education time to just 1 or 2 times a week. Students eat their lunch within a 30-45 minute period and weather permitting, they may get to spend 10-15 minutes of that time outside for recess.
I believe that recess during the school day is essential to the success of students. Children need a break from the academics and instructional structure of the day in order to get some of their energy out, connect with friends and be social to refocus and be ready to continue productivity. The Genius of Play website is a great resource that illustrates the importance of play.
As a teacher, I know first hand that children need a “break” from the school day, no matter what age. Recess is their time to recharge, socialize and most of all move around. So, when they return to the classroom, they are usually ready and more willing to receive more instruction.
As a parent, I am aware that my little ones get extremely distracted and unfocused after sitting for long periods of time. They tell me about their school day, starting with what they did at recess, which seems to be their most exciting part of the day.
Check out this video about Play at School to see what other parents think.
Do you think schools need to allow more play? Share your opinion on Facebook and Twitter with #GeniusofPlay! And learn about all the benefits of play at http://www.thegeniusofplay.org/.