Physical Movement & Gross Motor Development
« Back to Boys and Recess Overview
Recess helps burn off excess energy → better focus afterward
- Recess-Time Physical Activity Review (Nov 2025): Systematic Review: Recess-Time Physical Activity & Cognitive Focus
- SHAPE America (July 2025): Movement Matters: 5 Ways Physical Activity Improves Student Behavior
Supports gross motor development, coordination, and strength
- National Institutes of Health (May 2025): Study: Outdoor Free Play Predicts Motor Competence in Boys (Specific Link)
- Frontiers in Sports & Active Living (Jan 2025): Impact of Physical Play on Perceived Motor Competence
Reduces restlessness that can otherwise show up as “misbehavior”
- Frontiers in Public Health (Feb 2025): Effects of School-Based Physical Activity on Academic Achievement
- Recess Guardians (2025 Resource): How Recess Improves Classroom Behavior