Recess is defined as a “temporary withdrawal or cessation from the usual work or activity.” During our school years, recess was seen as a time to free our minds and move our bodies. Unfortunately, over the past few years, we have seen recess become defined either by a “cessation of physical activity” due to the removal of recess time or a “cessation in the proper treatment of classmates” due to lack of supervision and structure.

One of our favorite organizations, Playworks, is focused on changing this trend and getting recess back to its rightful place as a forum for fun and learning. You can learn more about the organization by visiting its website. We did want to mention here that Playworks will be holding a learning/sharing conference at Columbia University in New York City. There is still time to get involved so we encourage you to jump right in!

Playworks Announcement

Play On 2010 will be here before you know it. Plan on joining us at Columbia University in New York City on October 12 and 13, 2010 for two action-packed days. Take advantage of this high-energy opportunity to learn the latest tools, techniques and strategies to make the most out of play and positively affect the lives of children.

Learn. Lead. And Play!

Play On 2010 is a hands-on, interactive conference brimming with useful information. It is designed for parents, teachers, coaches, youth workers, community advocates and everyone else who understands the value of play and wants better tools, techniques and strategies to make it part of their community.

Play On 2010 features dynamic, inspirational keynote speakers, including:

• Good Morning America News Anchor, Juju Chang
• Author and NYU Professor of Education, Pedro Noguera, Ph.D,
• Author and Tufts Professor Emeritus David Elkind, Ph.D.
• Two-time World Cup Champion and US Soccer Gold Medalist Julie Foudy.

The conference is also full of informative hands-on breakout sessions, great games and powerful strategies you can take back to your community and use in immediately.