Physical Education 7

Physical education is an integral part of the total education of every child from Kindergarten through grade 12. Quality physical education programs are needed to increase the physical competence, health-related fitness, self-responsibility and enjoyment of of physical activity for all students so that they can be physically active for a lifetime. Physical education programs can provide these benefits only if they are well-planned and well-implemented so that they include the following:

• Skill development - Physical education develops motor skills that allow for safe, successful and satisfying participation in physical activities.

• Regular, healthful physical activity - Physical education provides a wide range of developmentally appropriate activities for all children and youth. It encourages young people to choose to be physically active and aware of the benefits of such a choice.

• Improved physical fitness - Quality physical education improves cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, muscular endurance and body composition.

• Support for other subject areas - Physical education reinforces knowledge learned across the curriculum and serves as a laboratory for application of content in science, math and social studies.

• Self-discipline - Physical education facilitates development of responsibility for personal health, safety, and fitness.

• Improved judgment - Quality physical education influences moral development. Students learn to assume leadership, cooperate with others and accept responsibility for their own behavior.

• Stress reduction - Physical activity becomes an outlet for releasing tension and anxiety and facilitates emotional stability and resilience.

• Strengthened peer relations - Physical education is a major force in helping children and youth socialize with others successfully and provides opportunities to learn positive social skills. Especially during late childhood and adolescence, being able to participate in dances, games and sports is an important part of youth and peer cultures.

• Improved self-confidence and self-esteem - Physical education instills a stronger sense of self-worth in young people based on their mastery of skills and concepts in physical activity. They become more confident, assertive, independent and self controlled.

• Experiencing goal setting - Physical education gives children and youth the opportunity to set and strive for personal, achievable goals. (National Association for Sport and Physical Education)