John Spencer is concerned that schools are cutting free play time from their lesson plans. “We tend to view recess as a break from learning,” he says. “However, free play is actually a vital part of the learning process. Play boosts divergent thinking, flexible thinking, and creativity. It helps students learn critical social-emotional skills.”

As someone who x-c skied 73 times this winter, and worked 50 hours a week at the same time, I think his point is relevant to the workplace too. Over the past winter I solved a lot of problems in the hills of Vermont. He suggests that educators incorporate play-based brain breaks in the classroom, integrate game-based learning and simulations, and pilot hands-on maker projects. This sounds like the recipe for a delightful leadership retreat to me.

Article: The Case for More Recess