NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — A proposal from state lawmakers would make a 30 minute recess mandatory for students up to fifth grade on any school day longer than five hours. In some cases, the requirement could also apply to sixth grade students.
There are several key details in the bill. Under the proposal, recess cannot be taken away as a punishment. The bill states young students learn through play, socializing with peers, and physical activity.
Schools would also be required to provide equipment such as balls and jump ropes to support productive recess time. The 30 minutes must be spent outside when the weather permits, though recess may move indoors if appropriate space is available.
Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon is a co-sponsor of the bill. She visited a fourth-grade class to hear directly from students about why recess matters.
“They talked about needing to have time with their friends. Others talked about needing to run around; they love being outside,” Buttenschon said. “In fact, the day I went, there was quite a bit of snow on the playground, but that didn’t stop them.”
Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
According to the CDC, recess increases physical activity, improves memory, helps students stay on task in the classroom, and reduces disruptive behavior. And EducationWeek.org reports that 49 percent of middle school teachers say their students do not get recess at all.