Figure 1.--Many children use the time to read books, but this is not required. It is left up to each boy or girl. Even so, most of the children volunarily read during the rest period. Except for the youngest children, most do use the rest period to do a little reading. |
The idea behind the rest period is that the children may take a little nap, but this is a bit optimistic. Some children take a nap or more commonly day dream a bit. Many children use the time to read books, but this is not required. It is left up to each boy or girl. Even so, most of the children volunarily read during the rest period. Except for the youngest children, most do use the rest period to do a little reading. The reading material varies. Most of the children read books, but we also noted a range of popular magazxines. Some might write a letter, but this is more common for the girls than the boys. At some schools the children can use the time more flexibly. One exception to the quiet rule is that some children are allowed to practice their musical instruments. One aspect of the rest period is that the teachers are able to relax as well. They normally retire to the teacher's lounge for a cup of coffee and a chance to chat with their colleagues.
