Although many schools consider recess a privilege that they can take away, many teachers and parents feel the option results in detrimental effects on students. One such effect is a nationally recognized problem with the increase in childhood obesity. Movements such as Action for Healthy Kids, claim numerous benefits to recess. Physical benefits include proper growth and development and an increase in bone mineral mass that can reduce the chance of bone fractures later in life. They also contend that children who are physically active during school are more apt to be physically active outside of school.
Schools located in area of extremely cold winters often have a no recess policy during those months; other schools find the incidence of violence and bullying at recess to be overwhelming. To solve these problems and take responsibility for student's safety, the school board deems it necessary to eliminate recess. Another reason for eliminating recess is that schools are required to teach a specific number of hours per school year or day, depending on the state's regulations. In areas of the country where school closings due to weather occur often, teaching during recess time helps make up for that time, preventing shortened summer vacations due to closures.
Lengthening study time due to federally-mandated testing requirements has lead some schools to gradually eliminate recess. In these tough economic times other schools are more concerned about potential lawsuits arising from accidents on the playground. Others insist that the benefits of recess to students far outweigh the benefits of eliminating recess to schools. An article originally published in the Wall Street Journal, "Rethinking Recess," cites several studies advocating the importance of recess. Some of the findings include that recess fosters creativity and social skills, builds self-confidence and increases mental focus.
The Peaceful Playgrounds website contends that "Using recess as punishment is inappropriate." Instead, they offer 62 alternatives, such as reading to a younger class or writing a letter of apology. For schools that condone taking away recess, the site suggests rewarding students for good behavior with coupons for a free recess pass. The student can redeem a free pass coupon when they lose that privilege.