New York Lawmakers Push For Mandatory 30 Minute Recess

Remember when recess was a full 30 minutes and the playground was the most exciting part of the school day? Lawmakers in New York are now taking the first steps toward bringing that back to elementary students.

A new bill introduced in the New York State Senate doesn’t require schools to expand recess just yet, but it wants data.

New York Lawmakers Want to Bring Back Recess: Here’s What’s in the Bill

Introduced in May 2025, Senate Bill S8076-A directs the State Education Commissioner to conduct a statewide study of recess in all public and charter elementary schools serving students from kindergarten through sixth grade.

The goal? Get a clear picture of what's actually happening during recess, when it happens at all.

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By December 31, 2025, the Commissioner must release a full public report answering questions like:

How many schools are offering recess?
How long is recess, and how often is it held?
Is it held indoors or outdoors?
Do schools have designated spaces for recess?
Is recess supervised or unsupervised?
Is it structured or unstructured?
What are the barriers to offering recess consistently?

This information will be shared with the Governor, both chambers of the Legislature, and posted online for public review.

Why Is This Happening Now?

Across New York State, teachers, school psychologists, and parents have been raising concerns about the sharp decline in physical playtime for kids. Many elementary schools now offer 15 minutes or less of recess a day.

Once you factor in coat zipping, lining up, walking down the hallway, then back to the classroom, some students get less than 7 minutes of actual unstructured play.

According to educators and mental health professionals, that lack of movement and social time is contributing to rising levels of anxiety, attention issues, and behavioral problems in young children.

The Potential for a 30-Minute Recess Mandate

While this current bill is only about collecting information, it’s a strategic first move. Lawmakers behind the effort have stated that their ultimate goal is to require all elementary schools to provide at least 30 minutes of recess daily, outdoors and unstructured.

But first, the state needs facts: Which schools are already making recess a priority, and which ones are falling short? Supporters say that once the report is published, they’ll use it as the basis to introduce follow-up legislation in 2026 to mandate minimum recess requirements statewide.

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Studies consistently show that unstructured play supports everything from emotional regulation to focus and academic performance. Physical activity improves mood, memory, and attention. Social play teaches kids how to negotiate, collaborate, and solve problems. And outdoor recess especially has been linked to improved behavior and better test scores.

What About The Winter?

Some New York school districts face months of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. While some schools adapt by moving recess indoors, others struggle with limited space and staffing.

These barriers are part of what the new study aims to uncover: what’s preventing schools from offering quality recess, and how the state might help address those roadblocks.

The 7 Best Things You Can Do With Dandelions (Great for Kids!)

Montanans know the signs of spring: snowmelt, budding trees, and—most prolific of all—dandelions. They pop up in yards, along highways, on hiking trails, and pretty much anywhere dirt exists. While most of us are busy trying to yank them out before they go full puffball, you might want to hold off. Because believe it or not, these yellow invaders are wildly useful—and even delicious.

Gallery Credit: Devon Brosnan