The 2025–2026 school year is off to an exciting start at Cedar Hill Prep! Our students returned to a campus alive with energy, curiosity, and smiles, ready to dive into a year of learning and discovery. Central to this experience is our state-of-the-art playground, thoughtfully designed to support academic, social-emotional, and physical growth.
Recess isn’t just a break from lessons—it’s a vital part of student development. Research consistently shows that recess contributes significantly to improved student behavior, focus, and academic readiness.
Brain-Body Connection: Physical Activity Enhances Cognitive Function
Engaging in physical activity during recess increases blood flow to the brain, enhancing memory, focus, and overall learning capacity. Research shows that movement supports cognitive function, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. By integrating our playground into structured activities, teachers can maximize these brain-boosting benefits.
Social-Emotional Growth and Inclusive Play
Cedar Hill Prep’s playground is designed to accommodate a wide range of children, including those with developmental delays, fostering social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Outdoor environments in natural surroundings help children cope with stress, build resilience, and engage in imaginative, self-directed play.
The playground encourages various types of play—onlooker, parallel, associative, social-cooperative, and motor-physical—which support emotional, intellectual, and physical development. Students learn to negotiate, collaborate, and express themselves while building resilience and confidence. The natural outdoor environment further enhances these benefits, helping students manage stress and feel connected to their surroundings.
Best Practices for Recess
To maximize the benefits of recess, schools should implement:
- Daily Recess: At least 20 minutes to allow students to recharge and socialize.
- Structured Activities: Teachers can use the playground to integrate learning opportunities and guide positive social interactions.
- Staff Training: Supervised and thoughtfully facilitated play ensures safety and enhances developmental outcomes.
- Academic Benefits
Recess supports academic success by improving attention, memory, and classroom behavior. Thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces, like Cedar Hill Prep’s playground, allow students to engage their bodies and minds simultaneously, enhancing readiness to learn and overall engagement.
Conclusion
As the 2025–2026 school year begins, Cedar Hill Prep continues to prioritize holistic development. Our playground is more than a place to play—it’s a learning environment that inspires creativity, fosters social-emotional growth, and encourages physical well-being. By starting the school year with movement, exploration, and connection, students are set up for a successful and joyful year of learning.
