Recess Gets a Makeover: This fall semester, Beijing’s primary and secondary schools introduced a 15-minute recess period—five minutes longer than before—creating new space for students to move, play, and recharge.
A Student’s Perspective: “After the exercises, I feel full of energy,” says Zhou Lezhi, a junior high student in Beijing. “It’s really fun to do different kinds of exercises during the break, and it feels especially great to design our own activities.”
Scaling Up Across the Chinese mainland: Beijing’s move reflects a nationwide trend. Local governments across the Chinese mainland are rolling out policies to ensure sufficient recess activities and expanded PE classes, answering a national call to balance academic learning with physical exercise.
Leadership in Action: President Xi Jinping has consistently emphasized that children’s health is a national priority. He has urged educational authorities to integrate sports and exercise into daily school life, underlining that a strong body supports a sharp mind.
As International Children’s Day shines a spotlight on young lives around the globe, these initiatives pave the way for healthier, more active students—equipping them to become the innovators, leaders, and changemakers of tomorrow.
Reference(s):
Intl Children's Day: China's efforts in children's health, development
cgtn.com
