Education has changed tremendously in the last 20 years. What happens in the classroom is much different than what parents experienced, and that includes physical education. WebMD recently posted an article by Laurel Leicht that focuses on those changes and the importance of physical education (P.E.). From the article:
How many years has it been since you did a shuttle run, played dodgeball, or jogged a mile during gym class?
In that time, physical education has changed, says Cheryl Richardson, senior director of programs for the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE). “The focus is on engaging students,” she says, “so they’re learning confidence and competence in various movement skills.”
Why is P.E. so important?
- P.E. lets kids try new things: Today's P.E. classes include a large variety of new sports and expose students to things such as yoga and Pilates.
- P.E. combats childhood obesity: Active kids are healthier, and P.E. reinforces healthy habits.
- P.E. boosts brainpower: Research shows that active kids learn better. Physical activity gets the brain ready to learn.
- P.E. improves social skills: Sports improve leadership, empathy, and problem solving skills in students.
- P.E. complements afterschool activities: Physical activities during the day help students prepare for extra-curricular activities.
- P.E. sets kids up to like exercise: When kids try new things and like them, they are more likely to continue to do them.
The benefits of P.E. are ongoing for students. Making sure students are active is an important part of their academic career as well as their health and development. Looking for ways to expand the benefits of physical activity outside of P.E. class? Walkabouts are fun, online adventures that get kinds moving—and learning.
