During the elementary days, recess was the prime time of excitement. From swinging on the swings, to sliding down the slide, and just hanging out with friends, recess was where the best of times laid. Going into high school, recess disappeared, and the fun times of school were gone – no more hanging out with friends and goofing around; no more sweaty outdoor days; and no more playing. Those days vanished. Why don’t we bring back recess for a change? What does high school have against going outside and having fun with friends?

According to the case study, “Recess: Is it needed in the 21st Century?” by Rachel Sindelar, the reason why most high schools don’t implement recess is due to the demanding need for higher test scores, and parents wanting their children to learn tougher curricula. Though that can be valid, having a brain break throughout the day can improve grades, friendships, and emotions for everyone. According to the Center for Disease Control, “recess throughout the day can improve the students physical activity, memory, attention, concentration, and helps them stay on task when learning in the classroom.” Recess can also prevent distractions in the classroom and can improve the students’ emotional wellbeing.

Another reason why high schools are against having recess is because of the length of the school day. The average school day lasts around eight hours, but with a recess break embedded into that time, it severely cuts down on instructional time. As explained by Sandie-Marie Williams, “school hours have not increased, [and] there have been deletions of “unnecessary” options. Recess and physical education are considered pointless by many” (“Recess in Schools: Disposable or Essential?”). On the flip side, having recess could – in theory – improve grades so much that even with the cut to class time, it wouldn’t matter. Grades would flourish, which would make the parents happier, too.

High schools would be better off having recess throughout the day because it would improve grades in the classroom, improve students’ attention spans, and help make students’ memories of high school better. It would also improve friendships and increase brain activity. Although recess would cut down on class time, it would be better for the children in the long run.