Health & Wellness: Physical Activity

Research shows that when children are fit and receive the proper amount of exercise, they perform beter in school and are able to learn at a higher level. Unfortunatly, the trend is not toward physical fitness. Parents must work with schools to establish physical education as a priority. Children must be given opportunities to be physically active throughout the day. Using these resources you can find out how you can help reverse the trend toward inactivity and help your children achieve.

Parent Guides

Physical Activity Overview
A guide to helping your children meet their exercise and fitness needs (from PTA's Healthy Lifestyles Guide).

Benchmarks for Effective Physical Education Programs
Checklists for determining quality physical fitness programs in schools.

Decline of Physical Activity
Reasons behind the decline in physical activity among youth and steps to reverse the trend.

School Wellness Policies
A look at what constitutes an effective school wellness policy.

PTA Publications & Presentations

15 Ideas for Family Fitness
Ideas for fun ways the family can engage in physical fitness activities.

PTA Healthy Lifestyles Guide
A parent's guide to nutrition, fitness, grocery shopping, school wellness policies, and vaccinations.

Resolutions & Position Statements

Resolution on Physical Education in Schools
PTA Resolution on the importance of physical education programs in the schools.