More recess, better results

Jackson Middle School is in the news for the trial separation of boys and girls during lunch to minimize conflict. This trial might turn out to be a successful idea. However, there is one proven method for improving behavior and academic success for all children: more recess.

Back in 1993, Pellegrini and Davis published a study showing an increase in concentration and test scores and a decrease in behavior problems in students who had more than 15 minutes of recess a day. Recess teaches children conflict resolution, cooperation, taking turns and sharing. It also provides a way to not only get physically active and burn calories, but also to alleviate stress. A new program called "Recess Before Lunch" has data showing that children playing before lunch were calmer in the cafeteria and later in the classroom, had fewer visits to the nurse, had fewer discipline problems, drank more milk and threw away less food.

Need more proof? Children who have more than 15 minutes of recess per day produce more vitamin D from sunlight. In addition, physical movement increases blood vessels that bring oxygen, water and glucose (brain food) to the brain. Dr. Olga Jarrett demonstrated that 15 minutes of recess resulted in 5 percent more on task and 9 percent less fidgety behavior, saving 20 minutes during a school day. Finally, data show that everyone learns better when information is given in small chunks, with rest time in between, than when given without breaks. Let's give kids a break -- a recess break.

KATHY HARRIS, Jackson