Recess and physical education are important, but different, parts of the school program. Play is an essential element of children's development. Whereas recess is unstructured time, physical education is a planned instructional program with specific goals and objectives. Physical activity and physical education are not the same. Physical education is an instructional program taught by teachers with professional credentials in physical education.
Physical activity is the subject matter of physical education.
Physical education programs and athletic programs are different. Developmentally appropriate physical education programs are designed for every child - from the gifted to the physically challenged. The intent is to provide children of all abilities and interests with a foundation of movement experiences and understanding that will lead to lifelong active and healthy lifestyles.