Pediatrician Group Says Children Need Regular Recess

‘Pediatricians should emphasize the following: A quality recess will reestablish mental equilibrium and focus,’ the group said.

Students jump rope during recess at the Herndon and Barstow Elementary school in Fresno, Calif., on Dec. 10, 2004. Paula Bronstein/Getty Images

Recess is important for children of all ages, a major pediatrician organization said on May 11.

“Pediatricians should emphasize the following: A quality recess will reestablish mental equilibrium and focus, a need of every student, kindergarten through 12th grade, every day,” the American Academy of Pediatrics said in an updated policy statement. “As such, recess should be a protected block in the daily schedule and be considered a student’s personal time.”