Recess Lab

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Transform Your Recess

 

Check out the resources below for strategies and solutions.

Interested in educator blogs and other information? Go to Educator Resources.
Looking for resources for your home or community? Go to Family/Community Resources.

Get Adults Participating

Teacher and staff participation has a big influence on how students engage and behave on the playground.

Use Positive Language

Small encouragements on the playground can change how kids behave in and out of the classroom.

Teach Students to Resolve Conflicts on Their Own

Help your kids settle disagreements with these proven conflict resolution techniques.

Explore more solutions

Get more out of every minute on the playground, with resources designed to make an impact at schools like yours.

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Make Rock Paper Scissors a Habit

Most problems on the playground start as minor conflicts. Consistent use of Rock Paper Scissors reduces these disagreements and keeps them f...

Set Simple Recess Guidelines

Rather than hampering play, clear rules allow kids the freedom to enjoy the playground with confidence.

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Bullying
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Safety

Include a Variety of Games at Every Recess

Setting up rotational, group, and independent games for different styles of play creates a safe space for every student at recess.

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Mixed Ages
  • Physical Activity
  • Safety

Create Smoother Transitions at Recess

Shorter transition times reduce conflicts and improve outcomes for both students and staff.

  • A Adults
  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Leadership
  • Mixed Ages

Focus the Attention of a Group

Put down that blowhorn: Try these playful exercises to help with group management and focus.

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Leadership

Helpful Ideas for Unconventional Recess Environments

Whether your playspace is small or large, indoor or outdoor, there are ways to guarantee a great recess.

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Physical Activity
  • Safety

Power Up Your Recess Team

Recess Team: the team of adults present at and responsible for recess periods at a school. Recess Teams ensure that: Recess is running smoo...

Move from Game to Game

Making sure that all students are safely engaged with an activity or game is challenging. If adults are stationary, it’s easy for recess to...

Rethink Game Rules & Boundaries

Why do we encourage clear game rules and boundaries? They create safe environments and provide opportunities for all students to join in pla...

Topics:
  • Safety

Promote Positive Communication

Have you every seen a student hurt another student’s feelings? Was it harder for them to play together after? Adults and student leade...

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Engagement
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