I do my fair share of advocating and promoting things like Arts Education, P.E. and Health. In case you haven't noticed, there's been a continued effort to focus on Math and Reading often at the expense of a well rounded education. While I know no one explicitly says or thinks that, it's hard not to feel that way as dwindling funds and resources have to be prioritized and those are the areas often left out.
After watching this video, I must say I question what we emphasize in our schools.
I have to guess that if we empowered our students to be healthy, active citizens, the benefits to learning would be huge. I actually don't we have to guess, it's pretty much been proven over and over. I fear it's literally going to take kids dying from heart disease and obesity to make us change. That's a little sad.
What do you think? Add a comment below or start a conversation.
4 comments
Health is one of the things I listed in ‘Things You Really Needd To Learn’ – http://www.downes.ca/post/38502 – so, yes, I think it is a 21st century skill.
Thanks Stephen,
I just tagged that post. Lots of other good stuff there too.
As adults we all know what effect food can have on our thinking. For example I know if I have something like say a donut for breakfast I can pretty much count on feeling sleepy and lethargic all day. Knowing this, it still shocks me how many parents will let their children eat extremely unhealthy foods on a daily basis and then wonder why they have behavior problems and can’t focus at school. I think it will help having schools promote healthy eating and cutting down on sugary and fatty foods and drinks, but the real problem is at home.