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Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

In My Opinion ...Kids Need a Break!

Dr. Sanjay Gupta

Ask anyone what his or her favorite part of the day is and the answer will probably be, "When I get to go outside." Everyone loves to take a break. What many people don't realize is that breaks are important to a person's mental and physical health.

For kids, the biggest break during the school day is recess. It is an essential part of the day and should be on every child's schedule.

In a recent survey, school administrators said that increased pressure to improve test scores, a more demanding curriculum and concern over injuries are some of the reasons why they are cutting back on recess. They claim that recess is the easiest part of the day to eliminate. But administrators are overlooking the ways that unstructured outdoor play contributes to the development of abilities needed for success in school--and in life.

The National Association for Sport and Physical Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services both recommend that school-age children participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to heavy physical activity every day. Studies show that inactivity is associated with the tripling of childhood obesity since 1970. Obesity can lead to serious health problems.

In addition to providing opportunities for physical exercise, recess helps kids exercise their minds. Research shows that kids who have recess pay more attention and are better-behaved in class. Playtime also gives kids an opportunity to learn how to get along with others and to develop problem-solving skills.

I encourage kids, parents and teachers to celebrate National Recess Week (September 18-22) by becoming recess boosters. Get involved to help change or create policies to protect recess and support physical activity in schools. Please visit rescuingrecess.com to find out how you can help save kickball, hopscotch and tag.

Next: A One-in-a-Million Baby