The St. Paul area of Minnesota is being strongly encouraged to acknowledge the health benefits of physical education and therefore increase the children’s exposure to these activities. Groups that have stepped forward to address this include the American Cancer Society and the Healthy Kids Coalition. Reasons for this include fighting childhood obesity and instilling valuable health lessons that will last a lifetime.
A few days ago, the Senate Education Committee held a meeting to assess the ramifications associated with the possibility of these changes. Several advocates stepped forward to share evidence that physical activity has a positive effect on brain activity in minors. Minnesota is struggling to meet the national standard of physical education time for children in grades K through 4. 150 minutes per week is the requirement and currently only one out of five schools in this area is meeting the criteria. A boost in physical education at this age with items such as more fitness testing and requiring more phys ed credits will help the students maintain a healthy lifestyle as they grow into adults.
These schools in need of a boost are lagging in the fitness area because of the extra time being directed toward reading, writing, and arithmetic. Some officials also argue that more gym time will take away from electives such as music and foreign language. A bill passed now also restricts schools from taking away recess as a punishment. The message attached to the old way was deemed as sending out the wrong signal. Activity is imperative and not necessarily a reward. Parents have also pointed out that the opportunity for greater movement helps children pay attention since they have an outlet to relieve built-up energy.
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