Recess Rescue for Waxahachie Independant School District

Recess is the right of every child. Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on Childrens Rights states that every child had the right to leisure time. Taking away recess, whether as a disciplinary measure or abolishing it in the name of work, infringes on that right. [skrupskelis, in clements (2000), 126j]


We, the undersigned, plead to the Wisd administration to return the right of our children to have recess everyday.

Below are just a few bits of research that further support our plea

it is inappropriate to substitute recess for physical education (National association of early childhood specialists in the state departments of education)

In allowing a mental change and release of energy, recess may facilitate subsequent attention to more academic tasks and minimize the disruptive behavior once students return to the classroom; recess, therefore, becomes an important element of classroom management and behavior guidance. (bogden & veg-matos, 2000)

Recess is a time for social development, social competencies, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

Physical activity fuels the brain with a better supply of blood and provides brain cells with a healthier supply of natural substances; these substances enhance brain growth and help the brain make a greater number of connections between neurons. The connections make the brain better able to process a variety of information, thus leading to improved retention of facts, a greater understanding of concepts, and subsequently higher achievement. (Healy, 1998)

Recess should not be viewed as a reward but a necessary educational support component for children., grades pre-k thru 5th and 6th. (COPEC)

Childrens attempts to make their way across monkey bars, negotiate a hopscotch course, play tag or toss a football require intricate behaviors of planning, balance, and strength--traits we want to encourage in children. Ignoring the developmental functions of unstructured outdoor play denies the children the opportunity to expand their imaginations beyond the constraints of the classroom.

Please consider the information and give our children back their recess and their success!!


REFERENCES:
Clements, R.l. (Ed.) (2000). Elementary school recess: selected readings, games and activities for teachers and parents. Usa: american press

Bogden, j.f. & vega-matos, c.a. (2000, march). Fit, healthy, and ready to learn: a school health policy guide: Part I: Physical activity, healthy eating, and tobacco use prevention. Alexandria, va: national association of state boards of education.

Healy, j.m. (1998). Failure to connect: how computers affect our childrens mind-for better or worse. New york: simon and Schuster.

Council on physical education for children (copec). (1998) PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR CHILDREN: a STATEMENT OF GUIDELINES. RESTON, VIRGINIA.