Pediatricians Urge Schools to Protect Recess Time for Kids' Health and Learning

Pediatricians warn that reducing recess time robs children of key benefits for their health, learning and behavior.

The American Academy of Pediatrics released updated guidance Monday in the journal Pediatrics, its first in more than a decade. The policy urges schools to safeguard recess, an unstructured break that delivers major gains.

"It has a very powerful benefit if it’s used to the fullest," said Dr. Robert Murray, a lead author of the guidance.

Researchers note that recess lets students reset between classes, sharpening focus and memory. It also helps children develop social skills, build confidence and remain active. One in five U.S. children and teens battles obesity.

Recess periods have dwindled for years. Data from the Springboard to Active Schools group and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that up to 40 percent of school districts cut or eliminated recess since the mid-2000s.

The academy recommends at least 20 minutes of recess each day, plus multiple breaks. It advises against withholding recess as punishment.

"If the child is disruptive or rude and disrespectful, recess is one of the things that teachers use to punish kids," Murray said. He added that those students often need it most.

Doctors say recess matters for older children too. Rising screen time makes breaks essential for unplugging, moving and recharging.

"As kids get older, they’re more on their screens," said Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, a pediatric specialist. "So it’s really helpful, I think, for outdoor activity and recess to be happening. Recess is great. We all kind of need recess."

Countries like Denmark, Japan and the United Kingdom already provide more frequent breaks, often after every 45 to 50 minutes of class. Experts say U.S. schools could adopt this approach to aid learning and well-being.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.