Taking away recess as a punishment is still happening in far too many classrooms, but does it actually work? Spoiler: it doesn’t. In fact, it often makes the problem worse, especially for our neurodivergent students who need recess the most.

In this episode, I’m breaking down why I don’t agree with using recess as a consequence, what the research says about its importance, the harm this practice causes, and practical alternatives you can use instead to support student behavior and learning.

✨ Why recess is not a reward, it’s a developmental necessity
✨ The research that proves recess supports focus, regulation, and learning
✨ How removing recess harms autistic and ADHD students in particular
✨ Why this practice doesn’t teach the skills students are missing
✨ Positive, neuro-affirming alternatives to use instead of taking away recess
✨ How to protect play while still addressing behavior and academic needs

Explore more neuro-affirming classroom strategies and visual supports on my TpT store and the Teaching Autism blog.

Let’s connect on Instagram @teachingautism—share your experiences with recess in your school, I’d love to hear how you’re protecting play for your students!

👉 Tune in and discover why recess should never be taken away, and what to do instead when you’re faced with challenging behavior.