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Why Children Need
Physical Education
Physical education is an integral part of the total education of every child in
Kindergarten through Grade 12. Quality physical education programs are needed to increase the
physical competence, health-related fitness, self-responsibility and enjoyment of physical
activity for all students so that they can be physically active for a lifetime. Physical
education programs can only provide these benefits if they are well-planned and
well-implemented.
Improved Physical Fitness
Improves children's muscular strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, body composition and
cardiovascular endurance.
Skill Development
Develops motor skills, which allow for safe, successful and satisfying participation in physical
activities.
Regular, healthful physical activity
Provides a wide-range of developmentally appropriate activities for all children.
Support of other Subject Areas
Reinforces knowledge learned across the curriculum.
Serves as a lab for application of content in science, math and social studies.
Self Discipline
Facilitates development of student responsibility for health and fitness.
Improved judgment
Quality physical education can influence moral development. Students have the opportunity to
assume leadership, cooperate with others; question actions and regulations 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 relationships
Physical education can be a major force in helping children socialize with others successfully
and provides opportunities to learn positive people skills. Especially during late childhood and
adolescence, being able to participate in dances, games and sports is an important part of peer
culture.
Improved self-confidence and self-esteem
Physical education instills a stronger sense of self-worth in children based on their mastery of
skills and concepts in physical activity. They can become more confident, assertive, independent
and self-controlled.
Experience Setting Goals
Gives children the opportunity to set and strive for personal, achievable goals.
From:
www.aahperd.org/naspe/template.cfm?template=childrenPe.html |
