Source: The Use of Social Media in School

Adventure to Fitness - America's #1 Educational Fitness Program for Kids

Calling all elementary school teachers - this is something you definitely are going to want to check out!

Adventure to Fitness is a FREE educational fitness program for students. Check out this video to learn more about the program.  If you have any questions, feel free to ask!  I used this many times with my students last year when events were going on in the gym and I had to push into classrooms.

Students Need Recess

A fellow classmate of mine passed along an article to me that I thought deserved some attention.

Despite Benefits, Recess for Many Students Is Restricted

State Senator of New Jersey, Shirley K. Turner, has proposed a bill that would require schools to implement 20 minutes of recess. This may not seem like a lot of time, but it is when your school doesn't make anytime.
The article points out obstacles that many schools face with recess - not enough staffing, no time in the academic schedule, the potential for behavior issues between students, etc. What is great about these obstacles is with a little creative thinking by the school administration and teamwork amongst educators, these problems can be eliminated. There shouldn't be any excuses! Students need recess. 

Check out these two articles regarding this topic:

Pediatricians say kids need recess during school

The Rebirth of Recess

If You're a Kid.....

I think many elementary PE teacher's would agree, teaching kindergarten has it's challenges. Students this young are in the early stages of learning social skills, understanding their bodies, and developing communication skills. Playing music can help these developing skills and really get the kids movin' and groovin'! They (we), find the music to be motivating, fun, and encouraging.

My favorite songs to play are the ones where students have to listen to directions as they move.

Here is an example:

We Need More Physical Education in Schools

Dr. Thom McKenzie explains why it's so important for children to have quality Physical Education in school and how caring adults can support it. Designed especially for parents, teachers, school board members and administrators.

Kids and Exercise: How much is enough?

At some point in the beginning of my fitness unit, I ask my students how much time they should spend exercising every day to keep their body fit and strong. As one could imagine, I get all sorts of answers! When I finally reveal the answer, I sometimes see shocked looks or hear gasps. Our discussion then turns to what kind of exercise makes up for that time.  We talk about climbing the monkey bars out on the playground during recess, riding our bikes after school, playing tag with a neighbor, or even walking to school.  Most students then realize, maybe they aren't so far from that number of minutes.

This week I want to ask my readers....

How much physical activity do children need?

Find out the answer here!

Shape of the Nation

NASPE's infograph based on the findings of the 2012 Shape of the Nation Report. 

  Which fact intrigues you the most?