Tool Box 1 - Creating the Blue Print
To build a sustainable and meaningful recess culture, it is essential to establish a foundation rooted in intention and purpose.
Tool Box #1, "Designing the BluePrint," emphasizes that recess is far more than a brief 15 or 20 minutes on the playground—it is an integrated part of the school day that stretches into the moments before and after the official recess time. Success depends on deliberate planning and creating practical strategies that genuinely reflect the needs of the entire school community.
By investing in a purposeful approach to playground layout and design, schools empower Recess Teams to create an environment where students are supported not only during play but also as they transition back into the classroom.
And the second part of your BluePrint considers thoughtful planning with administration and the Recess Team to create a school’s Recess Action Plan, which ensures that:
- All school stakeholders -all staff, students, and parents - are heard
- Communication between all stakeholders is open and respectful
- Expectations are clear and outlined
- Rules are well established
When a Recess Action Plan is in place, students return to their studies energized, focused, and ready to learn.