Nelson Mandela once said, “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” At Nelson Mandela Elementary, both hearts and minds are shaped by recess, and it is essential for social, emotional, and physical development.
At Mandela, recess occurs three times a day, every 90 minutes. Additionally, scholars continue to play outside in all seasons. Recent changes in temperature have allowed Mandela scholars to enjoy the snow. Featured in this article are fourth graders participating in a snow creations contest.
Due to COVID-19 limiting many social interactions, recess is more important than ever. Mandela team members have excelled in their creative ideas for scholars to safely continue in this activity. The benefits are numerous, with scholars getting time to socialize and exercise, both of which are paramount to the well-being of scholars both mentally and physically.
Nelson Mandela likely was not referring to recess when he spoke of the importance of having a good head and heart, but the team at Nelson Mandela Elementary have taken inspiration from his words to shape the youth at Nelson Mandela who are, as Nelson Mandela said, “the leaders of tomorrow.”