School systems are changing their physical education programs to make more time for classroom instruction due to the increased importance of high test grades, according to Al's Morning Meeting. But is this a good thing? Studies are showing childrens' health is in danger because they are not getting enough exercise. What's happening in your school, with your students?
In
Al's Morning Meeting, Poynter's Al Tompkins quotes an
article on the PTA web site that says childhood obesity has doubled in the past 30 years and is expected to get worse due to schools eliminating gym classes and recess. The article quotes organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
A CDC report said:
Progress has not been made toward
reaching the national health objectives for 2010 related to PE. In
2003, only 55.7% of high school students were enrolled in a PE class,
only 28.4% were attending PE class daily, and only 39.2% were
physically active during PE class. In addition, female students and
students in higher grades were consistently at greatest risk for not
reaching the national health objectives for PE.
According to the PTA article, schools are not the only culprits. Parents play an important role by not limiting TV watching, computer and video game use and consumption of fast food, and by not requiring children to exercise more, play outdoors and participate in physical activities. Kids are gaining weight and putting themselves in danger of medical problems associated with obesity.
The article said:
Numerous studies from the Department of Health and Human Services and other organizations report that sports and physical activity—for children and adults—reduces anxiety and depression, builds self-esteem, and enhances various skills, such as teamwork, self-discipline, sportsmanship, leadership, and socialization.
As Tompkins points out, some states (including Florida) are countering this with new laws requiring physical activity during the day.
