More work, less play: Are kids being pushed too hard in local schools?

GRAHAM, Wash.  -- Local parents are expressing concern that their kids are being pushed too hard these days -- saying they want them to have more time to eat, play and just be kids.

Recess is one of Kady Stephenson's favorite parts of the day, but she says the time just flies by.

“I didn't get to eat my ice cream. I only ate a quarter of my lunch.  I didn’t have time to eat all of it.”

Kady says some days she doesn't even have time to finish her food at lunch.

Dozens of parents are taking to social media to discuss how much time children are allotted for lunch and recess at Kapowsin Elementary School in Graham.

“They're starting school earlier, they're getting out later and now down to one recess. I think they can fit the extra time in,” said Janette Stephenson, Kady's mother.

Parents are concerned their children don't have enough time to eat and just be kids during school hours.

The school district says all the schools are allotted the same time across the board: 20 minutes for lunch and 20 minutes for recess.

The district says they also provide kids 45 minutes a day for either gym class or the arts -- along with classroom breaks called 'Brain Breaks,' which are left up to the teachers discretion.

Parents say they just want the best for their kids.

“I don't want my daughter to feel like she's going to school in a prison," Adam Stephenson said. "I don't want her to think, 'OK, here comes another lunch. Let’s get this over with so we can get back to class.'”

The school district says the current recess and lunch plan is being reviewed.

The Kapowsin PTA will be holding a meeting for parents on Friday night, October 3rd at 6:30 p.m. where they'll be discussing this issue and hearing parents' concerns.