Recess: A Vital Time of Day for Our Middle Schoolers

It’s 9:50 a.m. The bell rings, and a surge of energy erupts from our middle school classrooms. Finally, it's recess, the most coveted time during the school day. However, recess time in middle school goes far beyond students just "blowing off steam." In a world dominated by screens and structured activities, recess is a vital part of our students' development and one of the most important aspects of our middle school program.

Particularly in our K-8 setting, the power of play for our fifth through eighth graders during their two daily recesses is evident. Unlike the shift to more sedentary "hanging out" seen in traditional junior highs or 7-12 grade schools, many of our middle schoolers embrace the opportunity to engage in active play. And they are active! At any given middle school recess, you'll see:

• Competitive soccer and football games traversing the field
• Energetic pickup basketball games, both in the gym and on the outdoor courts
• Lively rounds of tag weaving through the playground
• Intense, cross-grade competitions of “9 Square in the Air”
• Gracefully choreographed swing routines on the playground
• Expertly executed volleyball rallies happening everywhere
• Fierce cornhole and foosball showdowns on the Eighth Grade Deck

This isn't just a nostalgic throwback to their lower school days; it's a crucial component of their well-being and physical health.

Another significant benefit is simply being outdoors. Fresh air, sunshine, and movement are natural mood boosters, providing a much-needed respite from classroom demands. We've observed the positive impact of recess on our students' focus and engagement. After a short break outside, they return to their classrooms refreshed and ready to learn.

Beyond the physical benefits, recess offers invaluable opportunities for social and emotional development. Middle school can be a time of significant social change, and recess provides a safe space for students to navigate these shifts. Students may also choose to attend a club to explore an interest during recess. Through play and chosen activities, they learn to negotiate, compromise, and build meaningful relationships. Whether participating in a spirited game of soccer, creating a card at the Kindness Club, or chatting with friends, these interactions are essential for developing social skills and emotional intelligence.

Perhaps most importantly, recess allows students to experience the joy of unstructured time. In a world where schedules are packed and every moment is planned, the freedom to choose how to spend their time is a gift. Recess creates space for creativity, spontaneity, and fun. It's a chance for students to simply be kids.

At Harbor Day School, we recognize recess as more than just a break in the day. It's an essential component in the social, emotional, and physical health of our middle school students. We are committed to preserving this vital time, ensuring that our students have the opportunity to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.