Partners in Play Study
Building Better Recess through Movement, Mentoring, and School Partnerships
The Partners in Play Study explores how UMass student Movement Mentors can help create more active, inclusive, and engaging recess experiences for elementary school students. Through partnerships between our lab and local schools, we are evaluating strategies to support children's physical activity, social connections, and enjoyment of play while strengthening mentor training and school-community partnerships.
Q&A for School Staff & Families
What do Movement Mentors do?
Movement Mentors organize and support optional games and activities during recess, help children get involved in play, encourage positive interactions, and create welcoming opportunities for all students to participate.
What is the purpose of the Partners in Play Study?
The study helps us understand how to best support active, inclusive recess experiences and how to prepare college student mentors to work effectively in school settings. Findings will be used to improve programming and strengthen school-university partnerships.
What is the primary goal of the evaluation?
The evaluation focuses on understanding how the program is delivered, what is working well, what challenges arise, and how mentor training and school partnerships can be improved over time.
Will children be asked to complete research activities?
No. The project does not involve any collection of information from students, and therefore, we are not enrolling students in this study.
What information is being collected?
The project focuses on general information about recess, such as participation levels, activity types, playground use, and overall program delivery. Researchers do not collect student names or other identifying information.
What will school staff be asked to do?
Staff participation is optional and minimal. We may ask school staff members to complete a brief online survey that will not ask about any identifying information.
Will observations disrupt recess?
No. Evaluation activities are designed to minimize disruption. Trained research assistants will conduct occasional observations while Movement Mentors remain focused on supporting students and recess activities.