Holmes Elementary Opens New Indoor Recess Room

Students at Holmes Elementary School have a new way to remain active and get some indoor play during the winter season! A new indoor recess room opened up during the week of October 20th and classes have been taking advantage of its fun-filled activities for everyone.

“Buffalo weather often impacts our students’ ability to use our outdoor space for several months of the year. We also realized that students needed dedicated time to practice social skills and play skills,” said Holmes Assistant Principal Kathryn Cannon. “We created the recess room to provide a dedicated space for students and teachers when outdoor play time is not an option.”

The room is on the second floor of the building and features different stations for students to enjoy several of the following: games & puzzles, STEM play like magna tiles and Legos, coloring, dress-up, a play kitchen, Barbie Dream House, toy cars, and more. All of the materials were sourced from outside donations and donations from the school’s PTA, thrift stores, and garage sales.

Teachers have the option of reserving the room throughout the school year. With recess a mandated 20 minutes of play for all students in Gr. K-4 across the district, the school says this room is a huge bonus with the opportunity to have fun, practice and learn social/play skills, and recharge and unwind.

“On the long, gray winter days we want them to look forward coming to the recess room and build creativity and imagination through games, building, and pretend play,” Cannon said. “It also reinforces that Holmes is not just a place to learn, but is also a community where students feel included, cared for, and valued.”