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MANHATTAN, Kan., Jul 26, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Playtime breaks or recess are more than just fun says Stewart Trost, assistant professor of kinesiology at Kansas State University.
"It comes back to kids just need a break," Trost says. "They can focus better in the classroom when given that break."
However, according to the National Association of Early Childhood Specialists, nearly 40 percent of the nation's school districts have either modified, deleted or are considering modifying or deleting recess from daily elementary school schedules so as to provide more time for reading, math and science.
"There is research to support that kids who have recess display better time on task, are less fidgety in the classroom and better behaved," said Trost. "Physical activity is essential to the physical and social development of kids."
Even if children have the opportunity for recess, they should still have at least an hour of additional playtime each day at home, Trost recommends.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International.
