The first few days and weeks of school tend to be very warm and humid (and in this year’s case… wet!). In previous years I have felt a little frustrated by this and concerned that the students were not able to get as much exercise as they could on a day where the weather is cooler. Over time I have realized this time of year lends itself to something just as important as moving your body, it sets the stage for working with others as a team. Many of the activities we have done so far this year may be lighter on fitness but they are strong on building teamwork. The transferable life skill of working with others to reach a common goal is an added bonus to exercise and living a healthy lifestyle.

“Walk in with your best dance move and give your partner a high five”

Middle school students on a campus scavenger hunt

Third grade students working on strategies for a game called Giants Wizards and Elves

First grade students make a machine

We have also just dipped our feet into this year’s umbrella project theme of research. The kindergarten and first grade students are often interested in lifting my bags of equipment. One day they had a discussion about why it was easier to hold the bag from the bottom instead of with the handles.

The middle school students had a similar conversation later that day on our forest walk. “Why is my backpack so heavy but I can lift my sister?”. These questions are a good start into inquiry for understanding complex strength training principles. Stay tuned…

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