Physical Activity and Social Interactions of Rural Elementary Children during Recess

Abstract

Recess is an important part of the school day for elementary children. It provides a natural opportunity for children to engage in physical activity, it also allows for young children to develop social skills. There is little research examining physical activity and social interactions among rural elementary children. The purpose of this study was to investigate levels of physical activity, activity type, group size, and social interactions of 3rd and 4th grade students attending a rural elementary school. Students (N=67) were observed during morning recess (25 minutes) using the System for Observing Children’s Activity and Relationships during Play (SOCARP). The data were analyzed using multiple independent samples t-tests with Bonferonni adjustments. Initial results showed no significant differences between grade and gender groups in each observation category. Upon further investigation, differences were observed. The results of this study were contradictory and mixed when compared to other studies indicating that other factors such as supervision, equipment, culture and playground markings that may play a significant role in activity levels in children during recess. This study has added to the literature regarding elementary children’s physical activity, activity type, group size, and social interactions during recess time. It also adds to the limited literature involving the use of the SOCARP instrument.