Saturday, April 11, 1998 | 2:03 a.m.
Most adults have fond memories of recess -- that time when we were set free from the structure of the classroom. Sometimes that meant playing tag with friends, other times nothing more than daydreaming. There are some educators today who want nothing to do with this. They think recess is, well, kid's stuff.
The New York Times reported last week that Atlanta is one of the first big school districts to implement a no-recess policy. Most school districts are like those in Clark County, allowing each elementary school to decide whether or not to have recess. There are no precise figures as to how many of the 142 elementary schools in Clark County allow recess, but the school district estimates about three-quarters of them still permit it.
Despite the trend to eliminate recess, child development experts explain it's important to have it. During recess, kids learn how to get along with others; without recess, kids can fidget and be inattentive in the classroom if they don't have a chance to go outside and burn off some energy.
To suggest recess holds back the educational advancement of children is silly. If a school has a strong academic program, setting aside at least 15 minutes a day shouldn't hinder a child's development. Let's not forget that even adults get a lunch and two 15-minute breaks a day during work. Educators need to lighten up and let kids have some fun every once in awhile.
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