You cram one last bite of sandwich into your mouth. Then you rush outside for recess. You’ve been waiting for this all morning: Sunshine! Fresh air! Kickball! You’re lining up the perfect shot when—BRIIIIIIINNNNG. The bell rings to call you back inside. Sound familiar?
Over the past 20 years, many schools have squeezed recess out of the schedule to focus more on learning. Schools across the country have shortened recess—or even cut it completely.
Now, many kids, parents, and teachers want to bring back longer recess. But do kids need more time to play?