A gentle story that guides a child through the steps of recess, from going outside to choosing an activity, asking to join friends, taking breaks, and lining up when it's time to go back to class.
Sometimes, after working hard in class, we go outside for recess. Recess is a special time to play, move, and breathe fresh air. When the bell rings, it tells us recess is starting. I can look out the window and see the sunny playground waiting. It's okay to feel a little unsure about all the choices. New things can feel big at first.
My teacher helps us line up calmly. We walk together out the big school door. Outside, there are so many things to see! I hear birds chirping and see clouds floating. I feel the sun on my skin. If my heart feels jumpy, I can take a slow, deep breath. In... and out. This helps my body feel calm and ready.
Now I can look around and choose what to do. There are swings that go back and forth, whoosh! There is a tall slide that goes down fast. There is a sandbox for digging. Over there is a quiet bench under a tree. I don't have to decide right away. I can watch for a minute and see what feels good for me today.
I see my classmates Leo and Maya playing with a big, bouncy ball. It looks like fun! If I want to play too, I can walk over and ask. I can use my kind words and say, 'Can I play too?' Sometimes friends say, 'Yes!' right away. Sometimes they are in the middle of a game. That's okay. I can ask another time or find a different activity.
Playing is fun! Running and laughing can make me feel happy. But sometimes, all the running and noise can feel too busy. That's a normal feeling. If I need a quiet moment, I can find a calm spot. I can sit on the bench and watch a fluffy cloud drift by. I can feel the breeze. Taking a break helps me feel ready to play again.
Recess doesn't last forever, and that's okay. I can listen for my teacher's signal. They might blow a whistle or ring a bell. That sound means recess is almost over. It's time to start finishing what I'm doing. I can put down the ball or get off the swing. I see other children slowing down, too. We are getting ready to go inside.
Now it's time to line up. I look for my class line near the door. My teacher is there, smiling. I find my spot in line. We stand calmly, waiting for everyone. My body might feel wiggly from all the playing. While I wait, I can take more deep breaths. In... and out. Soon, we will all walk together.
We walk back to class together, just like we came out. I did it! I had recess. I made choices, I played, and I listened for the signals. I did a very good job. My teacher is proud, and I feel proud, too. Recess will happen again another day, and I will know just what to do.