Recess policies and practices in West Virginia elementary schools

Background: In 2005, West Virginia passed the Healthy Lifestyles Act to help address the state's obesity epidemic.

Purpose: This paper reports on findings specific to recess as part of an evaluation of the Act.

Significance: Recess is widely recognized as an important physical activity opportunity for elementary school children. Best practice recommendations include how often recess should be offered, how it should not replace physical education, and that it should not be withheld as a consequence for misbehavior.

Methodology: Frequencies were calculated from surveys of superintendents (n=53) and elementary school principals (n=391) and from a content analysis of county Local Wellness Policies (LWPs). Qualitative data from surveys of physical education teachers were also reviewed.

Findings/Results: 55% of counties reported requiring recess for elementary students, 34% recommended recess, and 11% did not require or recommend recess for elementary students. In counties requiring recess, 24% required 10-19 minutes, 52% required 20-29 minutes, and 24% required >30 minutes. Only 24% of elementary principals reported having a policy that prohibited removing recess to punish students for misbehavior. 31% of county LWPs did not mention regularly scheduled recess for elementary school students and 53% did not mention student physical activity level during recess. Some physical education teachers voiced concerns about the use of recess to supplement PE time.

Conclusions/Recommendations: Recess is an underutilized physical activity opportunity for children in West Virginia elementary schools. Schools should be encouraged to adopt best practices regarding recess.