Why PD/H/PE?
- 1. WHY PD/H/PE? An insight for parents into the teaching of Personal Development, Health & Physical Education Mr Chris Burton, 6B, Kookaburra Public School
- 2. Why Do We Teach PD/H/PE? PD/H/PE is a diverse subject that covers a wide variety of topics and brings together elements of all Key Learning Areas or ‘KLAs.’ Like any subject at school, PD/H/PE is integral to a child’s development. It is especially important, however, because it builds the foundations for one’s life as a healthy and fit child, and subsequently, adult (Fitzgerald, Bunde-Birouste & Webster, 2009, p. 127).
- 3. Why Do We Teach PD/H/PE? Physical activity is not only beneficial for a child’s health, but it also allows them to develop skills in communicating and cooperating with others (Australian Government Department of Health, 2014). Health and Personal Development lessons allow students to learn about the functions and development of the body, as well as issues such as road safety and the effects of personal health choices.
- 4. What Do We Cover In PD/H/PE PD/H/PE classes cover a variety of topics, including: Developing interpersonal relationships. Growth and development of the body, personality and values. Personal health choices. Developing safe living practices. Participating in various games and sports, gymnastics, and dance. Adapted from the Personal development, health, and physical education K-6 syllabus, Board of Studies, 2007.
- 5. Physical Activity and Inactivity in Australia Australia is often seen as a ‘sporting mad’ country, yet many of us do not get enough exercise each day to maintain a healthy lifestyle. For children, the Australian Government Department of Health (2014) recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. This can come in a variety of forms and need not be in one 60 minute session – it can be spread throughout the day. Even if some children are not interested in playing sport, it is important for them to be physically active in some way. At home, make sure that your child does not sit down for extended periods (although completing homework may be an exception).
- 6. Myths and Facts About PD/H/PE Myths Facts • PD/H/PE is all about physical activity. • While physical activity does form a part of the PD/H/PE curriculum, students will also be engaged in learning about topics to do with healthy living, interpersonal relationships, and growth and development. • You have to be good at sport to participate in PD/H/PE. • Anyone can successfully participate in PD/H/PE lessons – practical and theory – regardless of whether they play sport professionally. In fact, physical activity lessons at school are designed to focus on fun first and foremost, with skills development naturally progressing as we go along. • Disabled children cannot participate in practical PD/H/PE lessons. • Anyone – including students with a disability – can actively participate in all lessons. Any activity can and will be modified to ensure that students with disabilities are not left out. • Teaching children about drugs, alcohol and sex will result in them trying these things at a young age. • There is no scholarly evidence to suggest that children will take drugs, drink alcohol or engage in sexual activity as a result of learning about them at school. Teaching children about drugs, alcohol and sex will inform them of the associated risks, and will teach them that it is ok to say ‘no.’
- 7. Conclusion As can be seen, the PD/H/PE subject covers a wide variety of topics, and is integral to your child’s development both physically and mentally. Most of all, it is great fun!
- 8. References Australian Government Department of Health. (2014). Make your move – Sit less – Be active for life! Retrieved 8 May, 2014, from http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/healthpubhlth- strateg-phys-act-guidelines/$File/Brochures_PAG_5-12yrs.PDF. Fitzgerald, E., Bunde-Birouste, A., & Webster, E. (2009). Through the eyes of children: Engaging primary school-aged children in creating supportive school environments for physical activity and nutrition. Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 20 (2), 127-132. doi: 10.1071/HE09127. NSW Board of Studies. (2007). Personal development, health, and physical education K-6 syllabus. Retrieved 8 May, 2014, from http://k6.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/wps/wcm/connect/6e4311c5-336e-44f8- 8c39-e289d96597a8/k6_pdhpe_syl.pdf?MOD=AJPERES.