They are experiencing them. Yes, you read the heading correctly. I am not teaching skills. I have not instructed how to dribble, kick, or toss a ball. I have not taught how to jump a rope, roll on a mat, or even how to catch objects. Many in my profession as well as readers of this post may be confused and even appalled at this confession. But, my students ARE LEARNING how to dribble, kick, and toss balls. They are learning how to roll on a mat and catch objects. They are even learning what happens to their body and brain when they are active. Even better than all of that- They are learning how to take risks, fail, and try again. They are learning that they can succeed and what effort it takes to get there. THEY ARE LEARNING HOW TO FIND FUN IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY! But how? I AM NOT TEACHING! THEY are EXPLORING! THEY are TEACHING each other. I am GUIDING and what I would like to think...INSPIRING them. As Aristotle stated,...we learn by doing. I want children to DISCOVER how their body moves and what strategies they need to employ to be physically successful. I believe giving children opportunities to be physically active in a safe, judgement free zone with support and guidance to develop their skills will do much more to foster an understanding and appreciation for physical activity. Many may see this video as just kids jumping rope. I see this video of students trying a new strategy and finding success. We all know jumping rope improves cardiovascular health. But, when children jump and specifically jump rope, they are strengthing bones, muscles, and their BRAIN! Jumping rope activates both sides of our brain for improved concentration and learning, balance, coordination, and rhythm-all of which help to develop and improve mathematical reasoning, problem solving, and IMAGINATION just to name a few. When students juggle they are developing eye-hand coordination, improving concentration, and even strengthening fine motor skills. Therefore this skill extends beyond the gym to help students improve academically as they are better able to track print, concentrate during instruction, and even utilize strong fine motor skills when writing. Please rest assured students are learning skills. But, I will be honest, I am more excited that they are finding THEIR STRONG and developing an appreciation for physical activity. Neither of which can be taught but are crucial for developing a foundation for living a healthy, fit, and ACTIVE lifestyle for LIFE!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
December 2016
Categories |