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.

Filter by:

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:
  • Safety
  • Physical Activity
  • Inclusion
  • Mixed Ages

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:
  • Safety
  • Physical Activity
  • Inclusion

Promote Positive Communication

Have you every heard disrespectful or noninclusive language on the playground? This is a common challenge, but it is also an opportunity. Yo...

  • K-6 All Students
Topics:
  • Engagement
  • Inclusion

Recruit Older Students as Leaders

Student leaders help make recess safe, inclusive, and fun for everyone. Learn how assigning roles supports a smoother recess.

  • 3-5 Grades 3-5
  • 6+ Grades 6+
Topics:
  • Physical Activity
  • Inclusion
  • Mixed Ages
  • Leadership

Manage and Organize Your Recess Equipment

Cut down on chaos and encourage better play, with simple equipment management systems.

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

Set Up Age-Appropriate Games

Help students of all ages get the most out of recess with games right for their level.

  • P-K Pre-K to K
  • 1-2 Grades 1-2
  • 3-5 Grades 3-5
Topics:
  • Safety
  • Physical Activity
  • Inclusion

Map Your Playground

By creating zones for different games and activities, students can enjoy a variety of games at once, while also staying safe.

  • A Adults
Topics:
  • Safety
  • Physical Activity
  • Inclusion
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