Recess – #TeachDifferent Reading Roundup

All kids need recess, everyday. Especially those who “misbehave.”

It has always baffled me when teachers use a form of punishment that is so obviously counterproductive to decreasing the behavior they are trying to “correct.”

Check out these four articles from my virtual PLN and one great resource on the subject of recess.

There Is No Choice About Letting Kids Go To Recess In School–Lee Igel makes a concise argument that "recess isn't a privilege and shouldn't be treated as one." A good, short read for anyone who thinks witholding recess is an appropriate way to address misbehavior. www.forbes.com

Why Some Schools Are Sending Kids out for Recess Four Times a Day–A great article on the LiiNK Project which "connects play and character development and is designed to bridge academics with the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children." www.washingtonpost.com

Longer Recess, Stronger Child Development–A short article that makes the case for creative play, and points to the role of recess in physical regulation and social-emotional development. www.edutopia.org

The Importance of Recess for Children With ADHD–An expert points out why taking away recess for students with ADHD is actually counterproductive. www.verywell.com

Recess in Schools–The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has an excellent page that summarizes the benefits of recess and provides recess strategies and resources for schools. www.cdc.gov