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Should Teens Get Recess?

Do you remember recess? When you were in elementary school, you probably got a break in the day to run around, spend time outside, and visit with your friends before returning to class. But you likely stopped having recess once you started middle school. Would you like to have that midday break back? Some educators think students should have recess all the way through high school. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a midday break can help improve students’ attention and concentration, reduce disruptive behavior, and aid social and emotional development. It also could encourage teens to be more physically active. But other people argue that adding recess to middle and high school would extend already long school days, leaving little time for homework, family time, and rest. What do you think? Should recess go back on your school day schedule?

Yes

Taking a break each day to move around outside helps clear my mind and boosts my productivity. Without it, I often feel drained by the end of the day. Science backs up my experience. Research by the American Psychological Association finds that getting physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, which may enhance memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. And a study from the Journal of School Health found that students who were given regular breaks reported lower levels of depression and higher levels of emotional well-being. As this research shows, recess is not just a fun pause during the day. It’s a vital tool for mental health and academic success.

—Anaya Sinha, North Carolina

No

Many teens already struggle to balance schoolwork, sports, clubs, and jobs. Making the school day longer by adding recess could put even more pressure on teens’ schedules. It could also be stressful for teens who suffer from social anxiety. If educators are worried about teens’ level of physical activity, recess isn’t the answer. If you force students to go outside, most teens will probably just spend the time on their phones. Instead, schools should offer more physical education classes that appeal to teens, like dance. At my school, we have a quick break each morning. I use that time to catch up with my friends and unwind. Short resets like that are all teens need to be focused for the rest of the day. 

—Bruce Matos, Connecticut

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