Week 4

Let's Move!

There have been many initiatives in the United States implemented to encourage schools to not only promote physical activity for young children, but to also increase awareness in students about proper nutrition. In this discussion, we will explore the development of curriculum, assessment, and instruction for physical activity. Begin preparing by reviewing the website about the Let's Move program. Now, imagine that your school or center is considering becoming part of the Let’s Move program. Recall the five key elements of the Let’s Move program, along with initiatives for promoting proper nutrition; these elements are physical education, physical activity during school, physical activity before and after school, staff involvement, and family and community engagement. 

Now, further imagine that in an effort to achieve school-wide change, your principal or director has asked all teachers to brainstorm ideas on how they will create an active classroom, thus addressing the second Let’s Move key element (i.e., Physical activity during school) and how the teachers will promote healthy nutrition. For this discussion, you will create a plan for how you will address these topics. Remember to review the Instructor Guidance and other required readings for this week to further prepare for this discussion.

Initial Post: Create an initial response in which you

* State the age/stage of children your ideas are best suited for.

* Explain the benefits of exercise and proper nutrition, and the positive impact each has on learning. Support your explanation with at least one scholarly resource. 

* Describe at least two ways you will encourage development of gross motor skills for this age group on a daily basis. Make sure to include how you will assess learning, as well as all materials you will need and how your classroom design or outdoor environment will support these activities.

* Explain your stance on the following debate, making sure to consider which category you would place yourself in and why. Support your decision with at least one scholarly resource.

Debate: In the United States, there has been significant debate about the role that schools and childcare centers play in ensuring children are receiving enough time to be physically active. One side of the debate feels that schools and centers should focus more on academics and promoting social and emotional growth, placing more emphasis on parents promoting physical growth at home. The other side of the debate feels that physical development and being active is just as important as academics, and therefore should be given equal time in schools.