De-stress is a time for students to relax and process new information. All students need this during the school day. However, most schools provide a recess for elementary students. Schools do not think about the students in middle school or high school.
There is much pressure on students to produce high test scores. Schools do not focus on processing and relaxation time. There is no free time in the classroom because of the importance of instruction time.
De-Stress and Elementary Grades
Recess time in the elementary helps students to de-stress. Thus, the brain can process information while students relax on the playground. However, some students get recess taken away because of missing assignments or poor behavior. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, recess is crucial for a child’s development. Participation in recess gives students time to practice social skills. It provides time for students to practice conflict resolution.
Middle and High School Time to De-Stress
Older students need time to de-stress and relax. They also need to ‘play.’ This time helps them to reflect, talk to each other, and process information. Students need to learn how to become an adult. They need to build socialization skills in unstructured situations. Also, they need to be active because of their various levels of physical and mental development.
Recess provides students to be active and engage with their p0eers. They need to have time for activities of their choice in all grade levels. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), it benefits students.
- Recess increases a student’s physical activity.
- It improves a student’s memory, attention, and concentration.
- It improves their focus and behavior in the classroom.
- Also, it improves their social and emotional development.
Unstructured Activities
Many times during unstructured activities, accidents happen. There are tips to avoid such accidents.
- First, establish rules as to the level of activity.
- Have adult supervision.
- Clear obstacles from the area.
- Make sure the areas of ‘play’ are visible.
Students from K through high school need at least a 30-minute break during the school day. It helps with mental and physical exhaustion. Students need to learn to incorporate a lifestyle that promotes daily movement.
Physical activity impacts cognitive skills, mood, and focus. Without physical activity or a break in the day, stress or anxiety occurs. Thus, students worry. As stress accumulates, the possibility of illness and infection increases. It also impacts social performance and classroom work.
Physical activity is not possible. Therefore, guided imagery helps. Help- students take a short vacation in their minds. They need to find their ‘happy place.’
Meditation provides students with some stress relief. As they meditate, they should practice deep breathing. Or, practice mindfulness involves being in the moment and listening to the surroundings.
Causes
Many situations cause stress for students. Test anticipation, an assignment that challenges, social situations, a schedule that is busy, or even an award ceremony, causes students to worry.
As stress reaches a high level in the classroom, simply remember to stop and smell the flowers or simply listen to some calming music.
