Five Tricks to Stay Recess Ready
written by Kayla Repas
Recess is more than just a break in the day, it’s a critical time for movement, connection, and well-being. Research shows that recess helps improve focus, behavior, and social development, while increasing overall physical activity levels for students (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).
Main Goal of Recess: create school environments where every child has the opportunity to move, play, and belong. Whether it’s sunny, snowy, or somewhere in between, here are five practical tricks to stay “Recess Ready” all year long.
1. Dress for Success (Yes—even in winter!)
One of the biggest barriers to outdoor play, especially in Canada, is the weather. But the right preparation changes everything.
Ever Active recommends helping students (and families) learn how to dress for the weather:
- Layer up for warmth
- Keep extra mittens and toques at school
- Create a “gear library” for students who forget
When kids are warm and dry, they stay outside longer and enjoy it more.
FREE Download – How to Dress for the Weather
2. Create Flexible Play Spaces (Indoors AND Outdoors)
Recess doesn’t have to stop when the temperature drops.
Ever Active encourages schools to think beyond the gym:
- Use hallways, classrooms, and foyers
- Set up movement stations
- Turn everyday spaces into active zones
This flexibility ensures students still get movement and play—even on extreme weather days.
Check out Ever Active’s Don’t Walk in the Hallway Resource
3. Offer Choice (Not Every Kid Wants the Same Thing)
Not all students recharge the same way—and that’s okay. Allowing students to choose how to spend their break is important.
Recess should support:
- Physical activity
- Social connection
- Rest and quiet play
Some kids will run, others will build, and some may just need a quiet space. A truly effective recess environment offers choice and respects different needs.
Free Resource: Move & Play at Recess
4. Use Inclusive, Non-Elimination Games
Traditional games can sometimes leave kids standing on the sidelines.
Instead, focus on:
- Games where no one is “out”
- Continuous movement activities
- Cooperative play
This keeps all students engaged, builds confidence, and strengthens social skills—making recess a place where everyone belongs. If you have newcomer youth, have them lead a recess game from where they are from – what a fun way to learn and celebrate their culture.
Check out the International Games resource for recess games from around the world.
5. Let Students Lead the Play
One of the most powerful (and often overlooked) strategies: give students ownership.
Some ideas include:
- Student-led games
- Peer mentors teaching activities
- Voting on options
When students lead, they:
- Feel more engaged
- Build leadership skills
- Create a stronger sense of community
And the best part? It requires very little extra equipment—just trust and opportunity.
FREE Resource – Better Recess: A Guide to Supporting Loose Parts Play in Schools
Recess is a vital part of every student’s day, supporting physical health, social skills, and academic performance. By planning ahead—dressing for the weather, creating flexible spaces, offering choice, using inclusive games, and empowering student leadership—schools can ensure every child stays engaged, active, and included.
Happy Playing!
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Recess in schools. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-education/recess/index.html