Homeschool Physical Education

When it comes to homeschooling I haven't met a family yet that puts the emphasis on physical education. I personally don't believe it has the same weight as mathematics or language arts but it is still a subject that we should not ignore. Nebraska state standards for physical education are 150 minutes per week for elementary aged children and 225 minutes per week for older children. This means in thirty to forty five minutes per day you should teach your child the basics on movement skills, fitness, team sports, individual sports and aquatics.

Don't let this overwhelm you!

It is easier than it sounds. For movement skills you can work on balance by drawing a chalk line on the sidewalk or laying a jump rope down flat and have your child practice walking heel to toe. Have fun in the yard learning somersaults and cart wheels.

Individual sports can be bicycling, fishing, cup stacking, dance, gymnastics or martial arts. Check your local recreation office for opportunities as well as fitness clubs such as Prairie Life Fitness Centers in Omaha which offers martial arts and cup stacking.

Team sports can be through a local recreational league, with friends and neighbors or even family members. Omaha Learning Center and Omaha Lightning are also a great resource for sports and activities.

Aquatics can be done during the summer at a local public pool or fitness centers that offer pools. Some fitness clubs offer free swimming lessons with membership which can really be a great benefit.

Maybe if you were part of the President's Physical Fitness Challenge when you were in school you will be glad to know that it is available to homeschoolers as well. Find more information at http://www.presidentschallenge.org/educators/program_details/physical_fitness_test.aspx.

So how else can you incorporate physical fitness into your homeschool curriculum? Why not try some of these activities:

hiking, Wii Fit, skipping, galloping, jump rope, roller skate, ice skate, walks, hopscotch, trampoline, local playground, follow the leader, kick the can, red light/green light.

Skill development and regular activity are important facets to a healthy productive life. Sports and regular physical activity can lead to not only improved fitness levels but longer attention spans and stress reduction as well. Educational games and sports which involve physical activity can support other subjects just as math and science. These types of activities can enhance a child's leadership skills as they improve their judgment and cooperation skills. An added benefit to learning any new game or skill is seeing an increase in a child's self confidence.