Our kids at Lumberton Intermediate School ages 9-12 get NO recess at present and have no play areas available to them. The American Board of Pediatrics states that “recess is a crucial and necessary component in a child’s development and as such, should not be withheld for punitive or academic reasons.” Research has shown recess helps kids cognitively, mentally, socially, emotionally and physically. They behave better and perform better in school when given free play time through out the day. Recess is recommended through grade 8! Our kids are in desperate need of recess being put back into the daily schedule and safe play areas outside.