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The Benefits of Physical Activity in Schools

By Dr. Melinda Bossenmeyer

The Recess Doctor

This article on “the benefits of physical activity in schools” points out other resources on the topic of physical activity.

Most classrooms have impulsive children. Some classes have more than one impulsive child. These children are frequently in trouble and display sincere regret for their actions… repeatedly. I wondered, “Will they ever learn?”

A new study suggests that a simple solution for the impulsive child is physical activity. Published in the Obesity Reviews, researchers identified that the brain controls inhibitory control which regulates impulsive behavior. Their research also found a link between neurocognitive functions relating to eating behaviors and exercise. In other words, physical activity in school has a positive influence on impulsive eating and actions.

In light of these findings, physical activity has two benefits schools should be interested in childhood obesity intervention, as well as, a calming effect on impulsive children.

Download the CDC Benefits of School Based Physical Activity Infographic



Physical Activity is like Medicine, according to SPARK author, John Ratey, MD we should “think of exercise as medicine.”

Fundamental Movement Program

allows you to create an outdoor motor learning lab painted on preschool and elementary school playgrounds for preschool children. An easy, do-it-yourself layout plan transforms your play space into a colorful arrangement of learning games and motor skills activities.

You can teach movement skills like jumping, balancing, hopping and more.

Active Kids. Confident Educators. Zero PE Experience Needed.

YOU'LL LOVE IT BECAUSE:

No Prep, No Stress

Just open and teach—each activity is ready to go with step-by-step instructions and visual guides.

Confidence for Non-PE Teachers

Build your skills while helping kids develop strength, coordination, balance, and focus.

Any Space, Any Time

Works in classrooms, cafeterias, gyms, playgrounds—or wherever you have room to move!

Course Description

The Playground Games and Strategies to Improve Recess is designed to introduce administrators, teachers, substitute teachers, physical educators, parents, after-school personnel, and playground supervisors to the responsibilities and strategies associated with organizing a successful recess. This course outlines how to make recess safe, fun, and orderly without “structuring recess”.



Course Goals

1. You will acquire a better understanding of how to organize elementary school recess.

2. You will understand the research behind the importance of recess.

3. Understand how to play some of the most popular recess games.

4. Understand the techniques and methods for supervising children on the playground.

5. Understand how to manage student behavior on the playground.

This is an online on-demand course. Once you enroll in the course and pay for the course, you will be directed to the log on and spot to begin the course. Students can progress through the readings and final quiz at their own pace during the 2 week enrollment period.

ONLINE COURSE OPTIONS

Playground Supervisor Training

Bullying Prevention Training

Grant Writing Course

Recess Before Lunch Training

Pedometer Walking Program Training

**NEW Course Bundle**

$2,250

How to Have A Peaceful Playground

Low Cost, High Activity Playground

Playground and Strategies for Improving Recess

Physically Active & Engaged Children

Physically Active and Engaged Children with games designed specifically for motor skill level and development.

While you can buy "pretty or cutesy" game markings, our game markings are shown to be the games kids like to play and will return to over and over.

Our playground games support daily physical activity guidelines and help reduce sedentary behavior during school hours.

Activities are inclusive and adaptable, ensuring every child—regardless of ability—can participate and succeed.

These games boost confidence, focus, and emotional well-being, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of movement.

The Recess Program Kit comes with blueprint designs for 3 different fundamental age groups:

Prek-Kindergarten

Primary (Grades 1-3)

Upper Elementary (Grades 3-6)

Field Games (1-6)



Add over 100 games and markings!

Game options are for individual or competitive or cooperative play.

The Peaceful Playgrounds Program is a nationally recognized and award-winning physical activity program touching nearly 5 million children annually for over 27 years!

Contact us. We can assist you with brochures, estimate and everything you need to get started today.

(951) 245-6970 or officestaff@peacefulplaygrounds.com

The Peaceful Playgrounds Program is a nationally recognized and award-winning physical activity program touching nearly 4 million children annually for over 28 years!

Recess is a right, not a reward.

Withholding play harms children’s ability to focus, self-regulate, and engage in class. Positive behavior systems work better than taking recess away.

10 Steps to a Peaceful Playground

Creating Safe, Active, Happy Playgrounds

May 2026 Winner

Melina DiSanto - JC Mitchell Elementary, FL

Enter your school today in the "Learn to Play" US Map Playground Map Stencil Giveaway. The beautiful geographically and proportionately accurate educational map stencil is 20 feet by 36 feet and extends the classroom curriculum to recess and outdoor play. History and geography come alive with the games and activities included in the stencil set.

You might be the next winner. Good Luck!

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