The Power of Play: Why Recess is a Key Component of the Middle School Day 

By Associate Director of Marketing and Communications Kathleen Bartlett

At Gill St. Bernard’s, Middle Schoolers enjoy something that many schools have phased out: recess. While it may seem like a simple break in the day, recess serves a deeper purpose, providing students with a much-needed opportunity to recharge and interact—which ultimately enhances their learning experience. 

The Middle School schedule includes two distinct break periods: one of which takes place right after lunch. This 10-minute recess was intentionally built into the schedule after recognizing that the first class following lunch was often a struggle for students. Instead of heading straight from the cafeteria into an English or science lesson, students have a chance to go outside, move around, and release energy before settling back into academic work. The result? Students return to class more focused, refreshed, and ready to learn. 

But recess at GSB isn’t just about physical movement—it’s about building essential life skills. 

During recess, students engage in unstructured play—whether that means running around, playing games, or simply chatting with friends. While teachers are present to supervise, students are given the freedom to navigate social interactions on their own. This time helps them develop key interpersonal skills, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and conflict resolution, as they figure out the rules of a game or negotiate disagreements without direct adult intervention. 

“Recess gives students a chance to work through social situations on their own,” Assistant Director of the Middle School Graham Touhey explained. “We see that this builds community, which in turn makes the classroom experience even better.” 

One of the most valuable aspects of recess is that it is entirely screen-free. In an era where students spend much of their day on phones or computers—whether in class, at home, or on social media—recess offers a rare and critical opportunity for old-fashioned face-to-face interaction. Without digital distractions, students talk, laugh, and bond in real-time, strengthening friendships and reinforcing a sense of belonging. In addition, GSB students come from a wide geographic radius, which means that many do not have the chance to casually spend time together outside of school. Recess creates a structured, yet relaxed environment where friendships can flourish. 

At first glance, recess might just look like a fun break, but its impact is far-reaching. From improving focus and classroom behavior to encouraging social growth and fostering community, recess at GSB is an essential part of the Middle School experience. 

In a world that is constantly moving at full speed, giving students the time and space to simply play is more valuable than ever.