Start the school year off right by using tools to make recess fun for all.
As we prepare for students to head back to school, we need to prepare not just the classroom, but the playground. Recess supervisors help make school a fun place for kids to play. The following are tools to make recess fun and safe for all kids.
Six attention-getters to make managing groups at recess easier:
- Match me – have everyone do the same action as yourself, such as touch their nose.
- If you hear my voice… – follow this statement with an action, such as clap twice.
- Rhythm clap – clap in a rhythm and have the kids repeat that same rhythm.
- When I say __, you say __ – use any two words, such as When I say recess, you say rocks. Recess, rocks!
- Alligator, Alligator, Chomp, Chomp – you say alligator, alligator, the students call back chomp, chomp while making a chomping motion with their arms.
- All set? You bet – you say all set? and students call back you bet.
Five recess games to start off the school year:
- Switch is a simple rotational game for students of all ages.
- Foursquare is a fun rotational game that children love to learn.
- Three Lines Soccer is 3 on 3 soccer with a rotation that allows more kids to play.
- Around the World is a basketball shooting game in which kids take turns.
- Circle Dodgeball is a simple game that kids can jump in and out off on the playground.
Four ways to spread positivity:
- Provide specific feedback, such as great throw, friend or I love how you’re trying your hardest!
- Silly fist bumps, such as the explosion or jelly fish, are fun and build rapport with kids.
- High fives are simple and contagious.
- Use fun claps for groups to appreciate others, such as the strong clap, woosh clap, and/or fireworks clap.
Three cheers to build team spirit:
- Banana cheer at the end of recess is a fun way to finish out the play time.
- Who rocks is also a great way to complete a group recess game, such as kickball.
- Zoom cheer is also a fun cheer to lead.
Two cool downs:
- Volcano breaths – have students take deep breathes to cool down before returning to class.
- Recess hats → Classroom hats – have students take off their imaginary recess hats and put on their imaginary classroom hats to create a mental transition.
One motivator:
- The kids! You’re building great relationships with your students each and every day which may impact their future success.
Want support to start the year off right? Sign up now for a free 15-minute strategy call and learn how Playworks can support your school.
