Albany, NY — Education leaders, lawmakers, parents, and students gathered Tuesday at the New York State Capitol to highlight the power of unstructured play and promote legislation aimed at making recess a daily priority in schools.
The event centered on a bill sponsored by Sen. James Skoufis that calls for a statewide study of recess practices in grades K–6. The goal is to identify gaps and disparities in recess time and ensure all students have access to meaningful daily play.
“Play isn’t a break from learning; it’s how children learn,” said NYSUT President Melinda Person. “When kids play, they don’t just return to class calmer and more focused — they return happier, more connected and more ready to take on the world. It’s time to stop treating recess like a luxury — and start treating it like the necessity it is.”
Sen. Skoufis emphasized the inconsistencies in recess access across districts. “Recess is crucial for the physical, emotional and social development of our kids, but how often and for how long kids get to play varies widely,” he said. “Healthy, daily recess provides students with a better ability to learn in the classroom. Let's get to work ensuring our kids can get to play.”
Senate Education Chair Shelley Mayer called the bill a no-brainer for anyone who has young children in their lives. “Recess is not only a time for students to have a break, it offers valuable opportunities to be active outdoors, interact with peers, and develop social and emotional skills,” she said.
Assembly Member Chantel Jackson noted the importance of movement, especially in communities like the Bronx. “When we are dealing with high rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, asthma — you name it — we have to make sure our kids are constantly moving around,” she said. “I’m excited to get legislation passed and ensure our kids have time to play.”
Guilderland third graders Jude Person and Cartier Appiah added their voices to the cause, sharing firsthand how recess impacts their school day.
“Recess isn’t just fun — it helps our brains, too,” said Appiah. “When I play tag or Gaga ball, I feel strong and good about myself.”
“I think we should have more recess, not just when there’s extra time, but every day,” said Person. “Even just 15 more minutes would make a huge difference. It’s like pressing a reset button.”
Support for the bill is growing among parents, school counselors, psychologists, and child advocates.
“Recess and play are critically important for all children,” said Patricia Frazier, president of the NYS PTA. “The benefits are well known: improved physical health, reduced obesity risks, better mental well-being, increased focus, and fewer behavior issues.”
Kyle Belokopitsky, executive director of the NYS PTA, echoed that sentiment. “Since 2011, NYS PTA members have called on every school district to offer all elementary students at least 20 minutes of daily recess. As a mom, like all parents and families, we know recess is vital to our children’s development and learning.”
As momentum builds, the coalition behind the legislation is urging lawmakers, educators, and communities to reimagine recess not as an “extra,” but as an essential part of student well-being and academic success.