Schools have sometimes trimmed recess to make more time for instruction, or withheld the daily break as punishment for misbehavior. Yet research shows this time can be used to reinforce a positive school culture. Playworks is a national nonprofit that promotes organized, intentional recess. A study of the model shows that children learn and practice conflict resolution, compromise, and self-regulation, as well as leadership and physical activity. Essential components of this model include treating recess with the same intentionality as academic lesson plans, having dedicated staff to organize and model games, establish common rules, use simple tools to resolve disagreements such as rock-paper-scissors, and foster positive language.
Families & the Community
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How Students Are Using Advocacy to Overcome Their Anxiety About Climate Change
For some students, climate change advocacy can help alleviate stress about the impacts of a warming planet. Schools can support that work.
Student Well-Being
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Do Students Need Mental Health Supports? Or Are We Just Coddling Them?
Two professionals who work with students describe what the pandemic revealed about the kinds of supports that young people need.
School & District Management
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Schools Have a Vital Role to Play in Helping Solve the Climate Crisis
K-12 schools have a big role to play in helping solve the climate crisis. But with time and resources in short supply, the question is how.
School Climate & Safety
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To Discourage Binary Thinking, Schools Need to Challenge Students on Their Beliefs
The nation may be embroiled in divisiveness, but schools must teach students how to work with those whose opinions differ from their own.
