Providence Journal – Linda Borg
“Two grassroots groups are urging the state Department of Education to restore recess to what they say is its rightful place in the school day. Parents Across Rhode Island has a petition, signed by more than 800 people, that asks the education department to include 30 minutes of daily recess for elementary students as part of the school day…”Active play is so central to child development that it should be included in the very definition of childhood,” according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Play helps children develop creativity and imagination…contributes to healthy brain development…[and] is essential to developing social and emotional ties.””(more)