The AAP's New Recess Guidelines Are Clear: Recess Is A *Must* For Kids

"Recess has changed a lot since the '50s and the '70s and the '90s, but one thing has stayed the same - the importance of it. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated their recess guidelines (the previous iteration was from 2013), making it absolutely clear that not only is recess fundamentally beneficial for kids in regards to physical health, but it also helps them manage stress, positively impacts their teaching-learning environment, and brings incredible social and cognitive benefits."

"The AAP notes in their new policy statement that recess duration can vary from school district to school district in the U.S., with some having "less than 10 minutes" and some having up to "60 minutes per day or more." Based on peer-reviewed studies, "multiple breaks with a minimum of 20 minutes every day" is best for kids to receive the full "cognitive, physical, and social benefits of recess.""

"Honestly, it's a nonnegotiable. How long should recess be? The AAP notes in their new policy statement that recess duration can vary from school district to school district in the U.S., with some having "less than 10 minutes" and some having up to "60 minutes per day or more." Based on peer-reviewed studies, "multiple breaks with a minimum of 20 minutes every day" is best for kids to receive the full "cognitive, physical, and social benefits of recess.""

Recess remains important for children’s well-being and development. Middle school schedules may include limited outdoor time such as occasional walk-and-talks, which does not replace regular recess. Recess has evolved over decades, but its benefits have stayed consistent. Updated guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that recess improves physical health, helps children manage stress, and supports a positive teaching-learning environment. Recess also provides social and cognitive benefits. Recess length can vary by district, ranging from under 10 minutes to 60 minutes or more. Peer-reviewed evidence supports multiple daily breaks with at least 20 minutes each day to deliver cognitive, physical, and social benefits.

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