Physical Education (PE) transcends the mere donning of gym attire to jog on a track or master the basics of different sports. It’s a comprehensive educational experience that encompasses a positive impact on student mental health.
PE teachers and experts emphasize that a robust PE curriculum has the power to transform a school environment holistically.
Potential Sucess Of PE In Dealing With School Mental Health
Erika Mundt, a dedicated PE teacher at Iowa West City High School, underscores the transformative potential of a successful PE program.
She believes that PE goes beyond individual exercises; it promotes cooperative learning, self-acceptance, trying new experiences regardless of skill level, effective communication, and problem-solving.
Mundt, honored as the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America High School PE Teacher of the Year in 2018, asserts that physical activity within the school day is paramount for student mental health, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Amid the ongoing efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s effects on education, Mundt emphasizes the vital role of PE in student well-being and learning.
She believes that PE and activity time to catch up academically is counterproductive. According to her, PE is an effective tool to aid learning and overall student development.
Cara Grant, president-elect of SHAPE America and PreK-12 curriculum supervisor for health, PE, and adapted PE for Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, supports Mundt’s viewpoint. Grant echoes that physical activity not only benefits physical health but also impacts emotional well-being.
Even in early elementary school, children begin to understand the positive effects of physical activity on their mood.
SHAPE America advocates incorporating emotional check-ins in PE classes, where students pick an emoji that reflects their initial emotions at the beginning of the lesson and another at the end.
This simple exercise often demonstrates a shift from negative to positive emotions, as students who chose a sad or tired emoji initially often opt for a happier and more excited one after class.
Grant emphasizes that PE isn’t solely about meeting a set amount of physical activity minutes.
SHAPE’s overarching objective is to cultivate physical literacy among students, helping them understand the significance of movement beyond its immediate benefits.
As students progress through different grade levels, PE lessons evolve to match their developmental stages. Regardless of age, effective PE programs aim to nurture confidence and competence in movement, focusing on personal growth rather than sports-specific skills.
The foundation of successful PE programs rests on encouraging students to challenge themselves and explore their physical potential, irrespective of their abilities or backgrounds.
Grant articulates the objective as promoting movement exploration, facilitating incremental successes, and fostering a sense of growth and achievement.
In a world where academic pressures often take center stage, the emphasis on the holistic development of students through physical education brings a refreshing perspective.
As schools navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, it’s becoming increasingly clear that prioritizing student mental health and overall well-being is crucial.
Physical education, in its multifaceted approach, emerges as an invaluable asset that not only contributes to physical fitness but also equips students with essential life skills, resilience, and emotional balance.
The educational landscape continues to evolve, and with it, the recognition of the pivotal role that a well-rounded PE curriculum plays in shaping healthier and more empowered individuals.
