Lesson

The Best Types of Movement to Help Kids Stay Healthy

Help kids to be fit by teaching them about the different types of movement that are part of their daily lives.

Objectives

  • Describe different ways to move.

Info to Know

Too often, physical activity is presented as exercise, exercise, and more exercise. Exercise is great; however, there are many ways to get the benefits of exercise and have fun at the same time! The lessons in this unit encourage kids to play, participate in a game or sport, and do leisure activities such as going for a walk for their physical activity. They will think about ways they can choose to move many times, many ways, and in many places each day. It all adds up—what's most important is that youth get the recommended hour or more of physical activity throughout the day. For more ideas on fun ways to add movement to your day, read 8 Sneaky Ways to Keep Kids Moving.

Set The Stage

Have kids turn and talk to a partner and share three ways they have moved their bodies since breakfast. Create a list of responses. What is movement? Are there different types of movement? Let the kids know that whenever they are doing a physical activity, they are making a fit move choice!

To use this with your students click here.

Captivate

Learn What Defines Movement

Students view the slideshow and decide which activities are fit move choices.

Leisure activities, like playing a game, gardening, playing the drums, and even chasing butterflies, are all examples of fit move choices because they involve physical activity.

Educate

There Are Many Ways to Move

Your moves do not have to be competitive or vigorous to be fit. You can move in many different ways throughout the day. For example, everyday activities (e.g., walking, doing chores, etc.), playing games, and participating in sports are all great ways to move. Just get your body moving!

Check for understanding: How do you choose to move?

Activate

Create Movement Statements

Download the Many Ways to Move printable for students to discover different ways that they can move their bodies throughout the day. Discuss what students can do on their own and when they may need help from an adult.

Close the Lesson

Now that we’ve learned what it means to move, let’s start to think about how we can find time to add movement to our daily routines. 

Grade: 3-5

Time: 20 Minutes

What You'll Need

Resources

Materials
  • Poster Board or White Board
  • Slideshow
  • Markers

Health Education Standards

  • Standard 1: Core Concepts–Express feelings in a healthy way.
  • Standard 4: Interpersonal Communication 
  • Standard 5: Decision-Making

 

Social and Emotional Learning Competencies

  • Responsible Decision-Making

Extend the Lesson

View the fit Units and Lessons Scope and Sequence Chart.

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