Help me give my students outdoor recess activities that will make them put their phone down!
$1,006 goal
This project expired on July 2, 2024.
This project expired on July 2, 2024.
My Project
Engaging middle school students in outdoor activities and encouraging them to limit their screen time can yield a multitude of benefits, encompassing physical, cognitive, social, and emotional dimensions. This paradigm shift from sedentary, screen-based activities to active, outdoor pursuits is essential for fostering holistic development in adolescents. The advantages of this transition are multifaceted and extend across various domains.
From a physiological perspective, outdoor play facilitates enhanced physical well-being among middle school students.
Regular engagement in activities such as sports, hiking, or simply playing in open spaces contributes to the development of gross motor skills, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness. Exposure to natural light also supports the synthesis of vitamin D, promoting bone health and overall immune function.
The reduction of electronic device usage has implications for mental health and psychological well-being. Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, has been associated with heightened stress, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-esteem in adolescents. Outdoor activities offer a reprieve from the constant connectivity and comparison fostered by digital platforms, allowing students to develop a healthier relationship with themselves and their peers. Students come from having a playground in K–5th grade to nothing in 6–8th grade.
Socially, outdoor play encourages collaboration, teamwork, and the development of interpersonal skills. Engaging in group activities fosters communication and cooperation, contributing to the formation of positive relationships. This is particularly significant during the formative middle school years, when social dynamics are crucial for identity formation and a sense of belonging.
The benefits of middle school students playing outside and reducing electronic device usage are manifold. This shift promotes physical health, cognitive development, social skills, and emotional well-being. As educational leaders, it is imperative to advocate for and implement policies that prioritize outdoor engagement to ensure the holistic growth and flourishing of middle school students.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
HBCU Alum875 students impacted
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Materials cost
$724.52
Vendor shipping charges
$29.86
Sales tax
$59.05
3rd party payment processing fee
$10.87
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$854.30
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$150.76
Total project goal
$1,005.06
Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Hunnicutt and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
