Physical education in school is arguably just as important as academic work. Where academic work aids in broadening the mind, physical education aids in healing the mind. Parents and educators are acutely aware that school can be mentally challenging and emotionally draining for children, especially as they begin to reach the latter years of their education. Physical education within school hours offers children that break that they very much need and deserve. Physical education in schools is vital as it contributes to the holistic development of students by promoting mental and physical wellbeing, social skills and academic performance. It aids in developing healthy habits and allows the students to have fun during class time whilst also, discreetly, working towards greater academic performance. In conjunction with the mental and academic benefits of Physical Education, the physical benefits are also present. The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that children aged 5-17 years old should be participating in at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Physical Education in school allows for this 60 minutes to be guided by educated physical activity teachers to ensure the most effective use of your child’s time.
Here are four reasons why physical education in school is beneficial for your child and their development.
Improves and encourages the development of a healthy lifestyle
We are all aware of the everyday demands that students schedules place on them, from trying to balance homework, additional study, chores and recreational activities. It is not surprising that for many children today physical exercise is often neglected from their after-school routine. By having allocated time within school hours for physical education children can easily meet the recommended daily physical activity without the distractions of their commitments and responsibilities outside of school. Having set periods for physical activity within a student’s school timetable can often ignite or encourage a more physical and healthier lifestyle. This time positively contributes to students’ overall wellbeing as it naturally develops muscular strength and endurance and can allow students to find a passion in a chosen sport. Physical Education within school also aids in educating students on the importance of maintaining and developing a healthy lifestyle. It leads to the understanding of proper body mechanics to ensure they are always partaking in activities safely and understand the parameters of their own bodies, and the significance of introducing physical activity into their everyday life.
Positive asset for mental health
Physical activity is known to alter the chemicals within your brain such as increasing your serotonin levels, releasing endorphins and decreasing your stress hormones. Having set time during the school day to participate in physical education allows for all these positive chemical changes to occur within your child’s brain to ensure their mental health is in the best possible condition. Regular physical activity can also improve sleep quality, which often directly translates to a more balanced and easily managed mood.
Promotes positive social interaction
Physical education in schools plays a crucial role in promoting positive social interaction among students. Through team sports and games, students learn essential interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork and respect for others. Students learn to respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses, offering support and encouragement to their peers whether they win or lose. Not only does participating in team sports build friendships and boost self-confidence, but it provides students with the essential social skills that will extend beyond the playing field and into the real-world.
Enhances cognitive function
Physical exercise is known to enhance cognitive function and academic performance as it stimulates the brain, increasing blood flow and oxygenation, improving concentration, memory and reasoning. Contrary to popular belief, the time your child spends in physical education is actually aiding in improving their academic performance. Physical exercise also decreases the likelihood of developing neurodegeneration. While this may not be something that is at the forefront of parents minds, ensuring adequate physical activity from a young age propels your child into their future in the best possible physical health.
At Kingsway, we ensure well-developed physical education programs are conducted in class so that your children are getting the most out of their experience of physical education in school. The health and wellbeing of students, both mentally and physically, is a top priority at Kingsway, therefore the College aims to provide a holistic education to ensure that all students’ educational wants and needs are being accommodated for.
Learn more about our Sport offering and facilities by booking an upcoming tour.
