Recess Games Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive papers

Recess Games Better safe than sorry. An expression Americans are exposed to and familiar with, especially parental figures. Adults who are new to the parenting game live by this guideline. A parent or guardian’s sole concern is the safety of their children. Their actions will probably be based on texts read or on first-hand experience, but instinctually, parents will play the safety game. It is this instinct and concern for young students’ safety that is causing school districts across the nation to review what recess-like games are appropriate in the elementary school setting. Games such as tag, dodge-ball, and football are a risk to student safety and should be removed from the public school system despite the developmental strengths the games possess. School systems across the country (including those in New York, Virginia, Maryland, Maine, Ohio, Texas, and California) are reviewing the dangers of schoolyard play. Simply, the student-teacher ratio is far too great to effectively maintain a safe atmosphere for children to play in. 70% of accidents and injuries come from falling off equipment, which still leaves three in ten incidents relating to kids playing rough. Many school districts have already banned games on the playground that violate a â€Å"no-touch† policy. These games, however, are still allowed in the physical education aspect of the day, under close adult supervision. For the most part, each school is in charge of its own restrictions that will be enforced. The â€Å"no-touch† policy is a popular choice. The degree of restriction varies, but the general trend protecting safety is to allow no contact games; no pushing or grabbing; in football, no tackling or blocking; and, no games that can result in shou ting and hurt... ...es and activities, taking the same exams and doing the same homework for years. They will fight for each other’s approval and respect. All these things that can be accomplished outdoors have just safely been moved to a desk in a closely supervised room. At recess, children learn to interact with one another, to govern themselves and have a good time all at once. Not to mention the motor skills gained. But the price of all this is too high. In the event a child is hurt due to horseplay, and the school or teacher is held responsible, there is no money available for that scenario. The school district cannot afford an accident. Plus, a teacher’s reputation is on the line after a lawsuit. â€Å"Better safe than sorry† is the most efficient and fail-safe plan of action to guarantee the safety of our children. The restrictions save time, money, and stress of all involved.