Mary Ellen Ryan, Elementary School Principal

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines recess as “a suspension of business or procedure often for rest or relaxation.” Yet, if you were to drop into the playground at Sacred Heart School of Halifax on any school day, you would see that the last thing our students do is rest or relax during recess. It is a whirlwind of activity — shouting, running, jumping, sliding, and playing. It’s quite the sight, and sound, to behold!

I often wonder if the neighbours around our school, or passersby on Spring Garden Road, are ever concerned by the joyful shouting and playful screaming or if they simply see it as a normal part of a lively school day. One of our employees’ grandmothers used to live next door to us, and she loved to watch the children from her window as they played and cavorted; it gave her joy to see and hear the children having so much fun. She often said it was the highlight of her day.

I share in that same sense of delight when I watch our children at recess. And, while recess may seem like it’s all fun and games, it’s actually an essential part of learning and growing for students of all ages. In fact, play is so fundamentally important for children that in 1989, the United Nations, through its Convention on the Rights of the Child, identified it as a basic human right.

In fact, our theme this year — another one of our important traditions — is Choosing hope, love, and compassion for our world. Important guidance for our students as we navigate a challenging world. 

At Sacred Heart, we have four recess periods for our Elementary School students. That includes one we just added this school year, first thing in the morning, which is proving fundamentally important for waking up young bodies and minds and boosting alertness and focus for the day ahead. When students begin their day with movement and social connection, they are better prepared for learning and more engaged throughout the morning. And unless it’s pouring rain or absolutely freezing, our recesses are always outdoors, so children can benefit from fresh air, which reduces restlessness and anxiety and improves mood. 

Recess isn’t just important in the morning. Taking regular breaks throughout the day gives students a chance to move, relax, and recharge. These breaks help reduce stress and prevent fatigue, allowing students to return to their lessons with improved focus and attention. Recess also supports physical health by promoting exercise, and it encourages social skill development and creativity by giving children space to play, explore, and build friendships in a less structured environment. When children have these opportunities to reset, learning becomes more effective and enjoyable.

At our school, recess is also a vibrant, community-focused time. Senior school students actively support younger ones by supervising, playing with them, and leading games, including our ultra-popular Gaga Ball. Our Elementary Student Council members also play an important role in encouraging kindness and inclusivity during recess. They help make sure younger students are playing cooperatively and making new friends, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Recess is much more than a break — it’s a vital part of building a healthy, happy, and connected school community. By valuing play, movement, social time, and renewal, we support our students’ growth both inside and outside the classroom.

So if you’re walking by and you hear our noisy, boisterous students, I assure you all is well. In fact, I encourage you to take as much delight in the joyful sound of their learning — disguised as play — as we do.