Active Play and Say Yes to Recess

What if one of the most important parts of childhood was quietly disappearing from the school day?

In Episode 9 of Active Play, Every Day, Dr. Emily Greenwald sits down with Rachel Bush and Kathryn Truman, founders of Say Yes to Recess, to explore why recess is far more than just a break between classes.

Together, they unpack the science behind recess, the growing movement to protect it, and how one parent’s discovery about her daughter’s school schedule sparked a statewide movement that helped increase Tennessee’s daily recess requirements from 15 minutes to 40 minutes.

This conversation explores why unstructured play is essential for children’s physical health, emotional regulation, social development, creativity, and learning. The group also discusses why recess, PE, and classroom movement breaks are not interchangeable — and why many children still receive shockingly little free play during the school day.

You’ll also hear:

• Why recess supports brain development and academic performance
• How unstructured play helps children build resilience and social skills
• Why middle schoolers and teens still need movement breaks
• What makes an effective recess policy
• Practical ways parents and educators can advocate for change in their communities

This episode is for parents, educators, pediatricians, and anyone who believes childhood should include movement, joy, and play.

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Active Play, Every Day is sponsored by Nex Playground. The controller-free console and Play Pass subscription offer 60+ active games for kids and adults, including Bluey: Bust a Move, Barbie Dance Party, NFL FLAG Heroes, and Sonic Forces Rival Rush, with new games and updates every month. Learn more at Nex Playground.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.