Monday, November 11, 2013

Why Taking Away Recess Is A Bad Idea


Taking away recess has become a common practice among teachers trying to rein in unruly students. While teachers may think taking away recess is an effective way to punish students for bad behavior, recess plays an important role in children's development. 
 
An increasing number of organizations are speaking out against the practice of withholding recess. In its recent statement on the "crucial role of recess," the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that recess should not be taken away for disciplinary or punitive reasons. Likewise, the National Association for Sport and Physical Education outlines in a position statement that "students should not be denied recess so that they can complete class work or as a means of punishment." This article in The Atlantic Monthly discusses the most recent studies and current practices regarding recess.  http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2013/10/nixing-recess-the-silly-alarmingly-popular-way-to-punish-kids/280631/

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