The Place of Recess in School: Issues in the Role of Recess in Children's Education and Development: An Introduction to the Theme Issue

Abstract

This introduction to the theme issue examines possible beneficial functions of recess. The arguments against recess, which are based on neither theory nor empirical fact, suggest that recess takes time away from more productive work time. In contrast to these arguments, it's possible that recess and the behaviors that children exhibit during recess may serve either immediate or deferred benefits. The strongest evidence supports the immediate benefit view; that is, recess maximizes children's attention to class work. Individual author's contributions to the theme issue are discussed in light of these issues.