Families play an important role when it comes to helping students practice the knowledge and skills they learn in classrooms outside of school. Similar to their academic subjects like Reading and Math, what a child learns about in Physical Education needs to be practiced and reinforced at home. From physical fitness and wellness, to food and beverage options, how a parent views and addresses physical activity and healthy eating can have a lifelong impact on a child.

It's crucial for children's minds and bodies to be active everyday. With the increasing reliance on technology and how easily accessible it is, it's not difficult for kids to rely on video games and screens for entertainment. Help your children figure out ways to get outside and be active. Even if they are not into sports, that doesn't mean they have to be "glued to the tube." This article from Rally Health gives some interesting insight into how screen time affects students' health.

This year, every student in Physical Education class will be setting fitness goals. Fitness goals are great opportunities to get students motivated and to share what they've learned in PE with you. As a family, you can also set effective goals that are specific and achievable. For example, you can set a goal to walk for 30 minutes a day, three times a week. It can also be a short term goal or challenge. As a family, run/walk 30 miles in 30 days or do a simple activity that can be completed in an evening like playing catch or tag in the backyard. Making it part of the evening routine is a great way to make it a habit.

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