Recess Matters: Exploring Access to Play Through Community Coaching

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In this course, students will engage with the critical developmental role of play in childhood and examine the inequities that affect access to play opportunities in diverse communities. This course integrates theoretical frameworks with hands-on community engagement, encouraging students to explore how play contributes to cognitive, socioemotional, physical and moral growth in children. Through readings, discussions, and case studies, students will critically examine social, economic, and cultural factors that limit access to play in various communities. Each student will partner with a local elementary school to coach recess activities for two hours each week. This practical experience will allow students to implement play strategies, observe dynamics in play, and directly engage with children in the community. Students will develop a research project analyzing the effects of their coaching experience on children's play and social interactions. Note: Students in this class must be available to coach recess one day per week between the hours of 10:30am and 12:30pm. Access to transportation is helpful but not required.