Health and Fitness

PE

The health and fitness program aims to instill in each child a sense of physical confidence and well-being within a fun and supportive learning environment. A variety of engaging games and activities promote focus and skill development, cooperation and teamwork. Special units include soccer, floor hockey, bowling, bicycling, track and field, and circus arts. The program is structured to meet student needs on an individual basis and to promote individual success.

Goals

  • to promote physical fitness, skill development, and health concepts
  • to allow students to experience success at their own level
  • to enhance the quality of health for recreational pursuits.

Highlights

  • circus arts practices and presentations for all grades
  • spring Track and Field Day for third, fourth, and fifth graders
  • climbing wall with routes developed in collaboration with professional climber
  • upper grade bicycling unit with bicycles and helmets provided by Cascade Bicycle Club

All students learn about both health and fitness components of physical well-being. The Five for Life program involves lessons about human anatomy, food, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles. Individual health and fitness portfolios allow students to document the results of fitness tests as well as personal goals and reflections on health and fitness choices.

Helping students develop enthusiasm for the movement experience is emphasized in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. A wide variety of large muscle experiences involve both locomotor and nonlocomotor movements. Manipulative experiences with small objects (beanbags, balls, hoops, etc.) contribute to hand-eye coordination and the acquisition of sports-related skills and overall physical fitness.

Third, fourth, and fifth graders develop a number of basic sports skills with an emphasis on individual progress and goal setting. Games and other activities further enhance cooperative skills. Students are encouraged to develop an appreciation of the importance of lifelong fitness.

Special events present a variety of supplemental learning experiences.  Circus arts training from artists in residence, traditional games from other cultures hosted by international student volunteers, and an upper school track and field meet at West Seattle Stadium enhance the program.