Say YES to Recess – How Three Moms Got Started with School Policy Advocacy

How much recess is your child getting in school? Chances are, it’s not enough! Dr. Rhea brings on Rachel Bush, Morgan Garner, and Kathryn Truman, a.k.a. the Recess Moms from Tennessee, to share how they’ve banded together for a cause. With 10 children between them, they realized that their children were suffering in school because of very little recess. This session discusses how they began the journey and the struggles they have had to realize their goal – more recess in schools! What began as three moms advocating for change at their children’s school grew into a county-wide grassroots movement and, by May 2024, evolved into the statewide initiative for recess reform: Say Yes to Recess.Known as the “Recess Moms,” founders Rachel Bush, Morgan Garner, and Kathryn Truman lead the charge for change. With ten children between the —six of whom attend the same elementary school—they have seen firsthand the impact of recess on kids’ well-being.Say Yes to Recess is a passionate group of parents, grandparents, teachers, and community members committed to restoring and protecting recess. Together, we work to ensure every child has access to the physical, social, and cognitive benefits of play while also supporting and empowering educators.