Developmental Goals for Sixth Grade Physical Education Classes

According to WebMD's website, one in five U.S. children is overweight. Since most people are aware childhood obesity can lead to adult obesity, as well as cardiac problems and diabetes, early prevention is important. Learning and setting developmental goals during physical education, particularly during the impressionable sixth-grade year, can help your child develop healthy lifestyle habits and increase positive feelings of self-worth. Your child's physical-education teacher can provide more in her life than a perfect jump shot; he can provide the foundation for a life of health and longevity.

Teamwork and Social Skills

Teamwork can help your child grow socially.

Your child needs to learn how to work together with others for a common goal, whether in school, work or within your own family. Participating in team sports during physical education classes helps your child reach that goal, and enhances her social skills. Team sports, like basketball or football, encourage your child to use her intellect and social prowess to score points and be successful on the team. These skills can be used as she gets older, particularly in the work force.

Wellness and Healthy Diet

A balanced diet will help your child stay healthy.

Many preteens and adolescents have poor diets and exercise skills. A goal of physical education is to teach your child about the five basic food groups and how to create healthy, balanced meals from it. Your child will also learn how to create an exercise program she enjoys to continue using after physical-education class is finished. Starting the development of these goals early is a start to helping your child live a balanced and healthy life.

Movement Skills

Movement is an essential skill in physical education.

Physical-education classes teach your child the appropriate way to move through dance and other choreographed means. Many sixth-grade physical-education classes offer a marking period in gymnastics or dance. Your child will also learn the proper techniques for stretching and aerobic exercise so she does not damage or pull any growing muscles. These developmental goals will help set her up for a lifetime of exercise and more.

Self Esteem Skills

A physically fit child is a happy child.

As an adult, you may know the value of an invigorating run and the wonders it can do for your body and mind. Physical education, through promoting health and wellness, can help improve your child's self esteem. Your child will feel better about herself physically and mentally as she meets goals and works with others as a team. As she develops strength and agility, her confidence will increase, and this is an invaluable life skill.

References

• education.com: Sixth Grade - Growing Up Quickly: Physical Growth and Wellness
• San Francisco Day School: Sixth Grade Physical Education
• West Virginia Department of Education: Physical Education Instructional Goals
• WebMD: Children's Health - Obesity in Children

Resources

• education.com: Physical Milestones Ages 10 to 13