Let's Make A Difference Together

 Our mission is to transform daytime recess into an active, engaging, and enriching student experience through the Great Outdoors Recess Enhancement Program. We are committed to promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and social-emotional development by utilizing outdoor spaces and encouraging structured play. We aim to foster an appreciation for recess, improve focus, and reduce stress, helping students recharge and prepare for the remainder of the school day.

At the heart of our program are structured activities such as organized sports, obstacle courses, and free play zones that inspire creativity and exploration. We provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills through cooperative games, and mindfulness exercises to cultivate mental clarity and relaxation. 

Our team-building exercises and "Community Circle" games foster strong social connections and a sense of belonging among students.

Through specialized staff training, we ensure safe, positive, and inclusive play environments, while also reinforcing the benefits of indoor and outdoor play for mental and physical health.

 By integrating Great Outdoors Recess into the school day, we support broader school wellness initiatives and offer adaptable programming for various age groups and school settings.

We aim to create a school culture where recess is not just a break from learning, but an essential part of a child’s overall development, promoting a lifelong love for teamwork, and personal well-being.

Great Outdoors Recess Program partners with New York City public elementary schools to implement our Recess Enhancement Program during lunch and recess periods. One of our highly trained and talented Play Coaches visits each partner school two or four days a week for 35 weeks from September to June to:   

Create recess routines for students in kindergarten to fifth grade

Identify useable recess spaces, especially for active indoor recess

Map out current recess spaces to create different game stations

Teach organized games and activities

Encourage all students to be active no matter their age or ability

Promote conflict resolution skills through play

Give students the skills to see any environment as one they can be active in

Work with schools to encourage active recess routines throughout the year.