P.E. in Homeschooling:

Basic Skills for Fun/Fitness

If you decide to design your own P.E. in homeschooling curriculum, the possibilities are exciting and almost endless. Pick from a variety and aim for a well-rounded program. The choices range from studying the rules of a game to hosting a backyard tournament!

Depending on how many hours per week are devoted to physical education, the child could use each class for the same activity until it's mastered. If it becomes tedious, rotate several skills.

Physical fitness is important for many reasons. Below are just a few to consider.

First, all have read the dismal statistics about the current situation of physical fitness. This even applies to young children. Years ago, people naturally got plenty of exercise. Even when I was growing up, kids played outside all day long. Unfortunately, that's not so today.

Second, being fit and at least having rudimentary physical skills is highly valued by the child. Linda Haught, M.A., of BJU Press, states "Parents often underestimate how dearly children want to play well." She cites a study in which over 50% of the youngsters, from 10-17 years, worry "about making a mistake" and "not playing well."

Third, the youngster is made of body, mind and spirit. Training his body will produce positive results mentally and emotionally, too.

Fourth, hopefully, P.E. will so pique his interest that he will continue it throughout his life.

Everyone should develop these skills and enjoy the following activities:

• Jumping rope

• Dribbling a ball

• Hula Hoop

• Catching and throwing

• Skipping, running

• Distance jumping (mark out a "pit," measure each jump)

• Hop scotch

• Bike riding

• Red Rover

• Tag and all its variations (freeze tag)

• Hide & seek

• Capture the flag

• Kick ball

In addition, teach the child a few floor exercises. As a start, he should learn and do sit-ups, crunches and jumping jacks. These are especially helpful when a child is cooped up, restless, and unable to concentrate on school. Many times we have taken "five" to do these. Afterwards, everyone (myself included) settled down and learning continued.

Don't be surprised if a child needs a little (or big) push to get started in P.E. in homeschooing. But as soon as he's used to it, it will be the "class" that is the highlight of the day! The rewards are so great. He'll feel better and so will you!

Physical Education: Getting Started

Physical Education on a Rainy Day

Physical Education: Add a Health Component

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