Question

Advocate for the importance of integrating unstructured, outdoor play into elementary schools a as a way of improving children’s health and wellness and the overall school learning environment.

a) Why is outdoor play important for children's development, health, and wellness

b) Discuss how many children are not meeting movement guideline requirements, and provide an overview of how things have changed in society leading to less outdoor play opportunities for children. How has outdoor play changed over time? What factors have caused this shift in less outdoor free play opportunities for children.

c) Finally, outline a plan for incorporating unstructured, outdoor play into Primary Schools. (Integration of outdoor loose play; outdoor classroom days; integrating learning into outdoor spaces etc/). Include stakeholders in plan (parents, community, staff, school, children/youth)

Answer 1

A. These days children are showing more interest in online games and mobile games. We hardly find children playing outdoor games like cricket, football which gives them physical fitness. These mobile games have become an addiction and reduce brain growth. The excess playing of these mobile games will effect eyes resulting in eye sight at a very young age. As there is no physical fitness there gradual increase in weight, resulting in various diseases. Excessive playing of these video games turns out into an addiction.

B. These days parents and schools are more focused on academic performance but not on sports. Many schools don't have a playground to play games. There is no physical exercise for children. Because of commercialization, we can hardly find grounds and parks to play. Because of these factors, children are showing interest in mobile games which will negatively impact the health of the children.

C. Primary schools should have dedicated time for sports. Schools should have proper grounds with physical exercise teachers. Parents should check whether there are enough physical activities in the school curriculum before admitting. Parents should keep their ward away from mobile phones and ask them to spend more time in physical activities like sports. Teachers and parents should educate their children on the importance of sports in day to day life. Schools should maintain a proper curriculum and give equal importance to both academic and sports.