When I was a child, I loved the opportunity to get active during recess! After a morning spent sitting still and studying, it was always a relief to be able to move around, stretch, and play. For us kids back then, having a break in the day to get our blood going, our hearts pumping, and our feet moving was essential to making the afternoon an academic success. It cleared our minds and rejuvenated our spirits. It’s no different for our kids today. Fresh air and sunshine can work wonders on attitudes, morale, and peace of mind. I think it is really sad that there are many school boards across the nation that have opted to cut out recess or physical education in their efforts to create balanced budgets. However, no matter what happens at school, you as a parent can control what happens at home.
Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
Being Active with Your Children
You control the level of activity that your children participate in at home. Sure, it’s really easy to put the kids in front of the TV for sitcoms or video games, and it’s especially tempting when you’ve had a full day at work. But your kids need fresh air and sunshine. That daily dose of vitamin D, in its truest form, is best taken naturally, from the sun. And even if it’s overcast, sprinkling, or a little chilly outside, grab those raincoats and head out the door! Everyone will feel better, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how the rest of the evening at home will go.
But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Created to Play
Even children have stress in their lives. Whether it’s homework, friendships, or common childhood concerns, the best stress reliever is exercise. I have discovered that when my two kiddos get to go outside and do what they were created to do–run, jump, skip, hop, yell, and get dirty—we have a lot less discipline issues that we have to deal with, especially with my little boy. When he doesn’t get his energy out in healthy ways, I have found that his energy will still express itself, often in frustration and inappropriate behavior.
What did you like the most about recess?
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In the past twenty years, children have lost an average of 8 hours of recess a week. Danimals Rally for Recess is a national initiative designed to create healthy competition, pitting school against school. Go to Danimals Rally for Recess for a chance to win $20,000 for your Elementary school playground. Plus each day Danimals is giving recess-related prizes to keep kids healthy and active. Share your Recess memories below and go to Rally for Recess for more information on how your school can win!
I have partnered with Dannon/Danimals to help promote the “Rally for Recess” campaign. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program, which includes writing about the promotion and product, and hosting a giveaway where the prize has been provided by Dannon/Danimals. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments. Contest Rules.
