As we reminisce about our childhood, one of the memories that stands out for many of us is recess. The excitement of running out to the playground, the thrill of playing games with friends, and the sense of freedom that came with those precious minutes outside of the classroom.
Recess was more than just a break from class, it was a vital part of our development and a formative experience that shaped who we are today. In this article, we will explore the importance of recess and how it plays a crucial role in a child’s education experience.
We will also highlight the efforts of Mission Academy to create a safe and friendly recess space for its students. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and rediscover the value of recess!
The Benefits of Recess
The American Academy of Pediatrics and academic experts agree that recess provides children with a necessary break from the classroom and allows them to just be kids. In today’s fast-paced world, children are growing up too quickly, and it’s important not to take away the little time they have to play.
Recess allows kids to step away from technology and the everyday stresses of life to be playful and imaginative while soaking up some much-needed Vitamin D. Mission Academy understands the importance of outdoor play and values recess as a crucial part of the school day.
At Mission Academy, we believe in empowering our students and fostering a sense of community and ownership. Our school model is student-led, and we invite our learners to co-create a safe and enjoyable recess experience. We believe that by involving our students in the decision-making process, they will take greater responsibility for their actions and the overall atmosphere of the playground.
Our playground rules are simple and easy to understand, promoting safety, teamwork, and peaceful conflict resolution.
- Play safely and take care of yourself and others.
- Climb only on the inside of the wooden structure.
- Slide down the slide and use the stairs to get to the top.
- Use equipment and structures safely.
- Show teamwork and sportsmanship.
- Solve conflicts peacefully.
- Keep our playground clean.
We encourage our students to play safely, take care of themselves and others, and keep the playground clean. By fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership, we create a positive and inclusive recess environment for all students.
Outdoor Play Helps Our Children Grow and Develop
The benefits of playgrounds and free play in child development cannot be overstated, particularly during the early school years. Play is a crucial way for children to learn how to socialize, improve their thinking skills, and develop the abilities they will need in adult life. This is especially true for older children, who use fantasy play as a way to explore new roles, emotions, and vocabulary.
As children grow older, their play becomes more complex and multi-faceted. They begin to assume adult roles and think more abstractly about play. This is also the time when they learn about gameplay and rules. Games like Simon Says teach children to follow the rules, while also challenging rules that may not be fair to others.
Mission Academy Values The Importance of Recess
In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, children are facing more distractions than ever before. From television and computer games to smartphones and other electronic devices, these distractions aim to capture a significant portion of children’s attention.
Advertisers and retailers are increasingly targeting younger and younger children, encouraging them and their parents to purchase the latest electronic products. However, in this push for more screen time, we are in danger of neglecting one of the most crucial aspects of child development: playtime.
At Mission Academy, we recognize the importance of play, and we will never compromise on the value of recess. We believe that providing children with the opportunity to play and engage in unstructured activities is essential for their overall well-being and development.
