Overview:
Research from pediatricians and child development experts shows that recess is important to students’ social, emotional, physical, and academic well-being and should be protected as an integral part of the school day.
For generations, recess has been considered by many students to be the best part of the school day. But according to pediatricians, researchers, and child-rearing experts, recess is more than just a break between lessons—it’s an important part of healthy learning and development.
A growing body of research, reaffirmed by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), says that recess should be protected in all schools because it supports children socially, emotionally, physically, and academically. Experts warn that reducing or withholding recess for punishment or extra teaching time can negatively affect students’ well-being and learning outcomes.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child defines childhood as a protected period where young people should have opportunities to “grow, learn, play, develop and thrive in dignity.” Article 31 specifically states that children have the right to rest, play, and participate in creative activities.
The AAP echoed this position in a policy statement first issued in 2013 and reaffirmed recently, emphasizing that recess is “a necessary break in the day to promote a child’s social, emotional, physical, and mental development.”
Researchers say the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how important informal social interaction and physical play are for young people. During school closures, many students struggled with isolation, anxiety, lack of routine, and reduced opportunities to engage with peers. Daily school routines—including recess—play a quietly important role in maintaining balance and stability for children and youth.
Today, experts define recess as more than playground time for elementary school students. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines recess as a scheduled period during the school day when students of all grade levels are not able to engage in physical activity, social interaction, or quiet recreational activities of their own choosing.
Research shows that recess benefits students in several important ways.
Socially and emotionally, recess gives students time to build friendships, practice conflict resolution, develop leadership skills, and strengthen communication. Researchers note that this connection helps students develop resilience and emotional regulation while developing a strong sense of belonging at school.
Physically, recess encourages movement at a time when many children spend hours sitting. Experts say opportunities to play improve physical fitness, reduce stress, and contribute to healthy habits later in life.
Academically, breaks during the school day can improve attention, memory retention, and concentration. Research on “waking rest” suggests that students retain information better when reading is followed by periods of mental rest. Physical activity during leisure time has been linked to improved brain function and higher performance abilities.
Despite these benefits, access to leave remains unequal across the United States. Research shows that schools serving low-income communities and historically marginalized students are more likely to reduce or suspend for disciplinary or academic reasons.
Experts also warn against over-scheduling playtime. Although adult supervision is necessary for safety and inclusion, researchers argue that children benefit from opportunities for self-directed play, creativity, and controlled risk-taking. Activities such as climbing, running, and informal sports help students build independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
Many researchers advocate having breaks several times throughout the day, similar to the practices of countries such as Finland, Japan, and the United Kingdom, where students get regular breaks between lessons.
The report also emphasizes that recess should not be seen as a substitute for physical education. While PE focuses on motor skills, sports, and fitness instruction, recess provides opportunities for free play, social development, and emotional growth.
Pediatricians are now encouraging schools, families, and policy makers to treat recess as an integral part of education rather than an optional right. They argue that protecting recess isn’t just about giving students time to play—it’s about nurturing the whole child.
As debates about academic performance, student mental health, and school behavior rage across the country, researchers say one solution may already exist within the school day itself: giving students time to relax, move, connect, and just be kids.
