Category: EPHE 246 Blog Posts

Something You Have Learned Well:

One key concept I’ve developed a strong understanding of in this course is the importance of the Comprehensive School Health (CSH) framework. This holistic approach to health and physical education resonated with me because it emphasizes integrating physical education, mental well-being, and overall student success. The CSH model’s focus on social and physical environments, teaching and learning, and partnerships highlights how schools can foster lifelong healthy habits. Moving forward, I plan to incorporate this framework into my teaching practices by advocating for policies and programs prioritizing student well-being beyond physical activity. Whether through curriculum design or extracurricular programs, I aim to create opportunities for students to develop physical literacy in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Something That Has Caught Your Interest:

One topic that particularly caught my interest was the link between physical education and mental health. I had always viewed physical education as focusing primarily on fitness, but this course taught me how physical activity is also vital for mental well-being. It helps reduce stress, improve mood, and build self-esteem. I’ve learned that physical education is not only about developing physical skills but also about teaching resilience and coping strategies. This insight will influence how I design lessons, ensuring that mental health promotion is integrated alongside physical fitness.

Something You Would Like to Learn More About:

One area I’d like to explore further is inclusive physical education programs for students with diverse needs. While this course introduced strategies for creating accessible learning environments, I want to learn more about adaptive physical education. Understanding how to modify activities, use assistive technologies, and create truly inclusive spaces is essential for fostering equitable participation. Gaining further knowledge in this area would benefit me both professionally and personally, as it will help me be a more effective educator and advocate for inclusive health and wellness initiatives.

Reflection on Your Personal Growth:

Looking back on my journey in EPHE 246, my understanding of physical and health education has evolved significantly. Initially, I viewed physical education mainly as skill development in sports and fitness. However, this course broadened my perspective, emphasizing the integration of mental health, social-emotional learning, and lifelong well-being. I now recognize that creating inclusive and engaging learning environments is just as important as the activities themselves. I’m committed to promoting practices that encourage participation from all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Overall, EPHE 246 has shaped my approach to physical and health education, and I’m excited to apply these concepts in my future classrooms.

References: 

Image: Benefits of Exercise to Your Mental Health. (n.d.). Www.ukgymequipment.com. https://www.ukgymequipment.com/blog/benefits-of-exercise-to-your-mental-health/ 

Understanding Physical Literacy and Quality Daily Physical Education (QDPE): 

Physical Literacy:

Physical literacy and the quality of daily physical education are essential in creating lifelong engagement in physical activity while also promoting overall well-being. But what exactly is physical literacy and the quality of physical education? Let’s begin by exploring physical literacy together. Physical literacy refers to an individual’s ability, confidence, and motivation to be physically active throughout life. It involves many different key components, such as basic motor skills like jumping, throwing a ball, and running, as well as a cognitive understanding of movement with motivation to stay active. Kids normally develop motor skills at a fairly young age, and when encouraged early, they are more likely to participate in physical activity consistently. This leads to long-term health benefits, but how exactly does physical literacy help support lifelong engagement for overall well-being? Simply developing physical literacy encourages individuals to participate, work to their best efforts, and explore different forms of movement by using and building off confidence. The more you practice, the easier it becomes, especially when learning that making mistakes is part of your growth. Many students hesitate to try new activities because they fear failure or themselves. As a future teacher, I would like to help my students and teach them that failure is not a setback but a stepping stone to learning. Physical literacy mirrors this idea, as taking small steps, building confidence, and helping individuals adopt active lifestyles will help them succeed in life and overcome fears.

Quality Daily Physical Education:

Now, let’s talk about the quality of daily physical education (QDPE) and how it plays a massive role in developing physical literacy to successfully live an active life. The QDPE is a structured, well-planned physical education program from kindergarten to grade 12, that ensures all students participate in meaningful and inclusive physical activities, focusing on skill development, social inclusion, and enjoyment. While the QDPE is primarily used in schools, it can also be applied across many other settings, such as community recreation programs and workplaces. By establishing physical literacy in daily routines, these programs inspire other individuals to move their bodies. Something that stands out to me about the QDPE is how it ensures physical education is accessible for all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, to have opportunities to participate in physical education. Creating inclusive, welcoming environments is so important for building stronger communities where everyone feels safe, supported, and encouraged to stay active. 

In conclusion, developing physical literacy is key to promoting lifelong engagement in physical activity. The QDPE reinforces this by offering structured, inclusive, and meaningful ways to stay active. Applying these tools and concepts in our communities and schools can create environments that inspire others to move, helping them lead healthier, happier lives.

References:

• “Quality Physical Education.” PHE Canada, 2024, phecanada.ca/professional-learning/qpe
• The International Physical Literacy Association. “Physical Literacy Definition – Physical Literacy.” Physical Literacy, 2016, physicalliteracy.ca/physical-literacy/
• 1st Image: Way. “Coastal Pediatric Associates.” Coastal Pediatric Associates, Feb. 2023, www.cpakids.com/blog/making-physical-activity-a-way-of-life. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.
• 2nd Image: “Kids Should Have to Play with Everyone: My Thoughts on Teaching Children to Be Includers | Opinion | 30Seconds Mom.” 30Seconds Mom, 30Seconds, 2025, 30seconds.com/mom/tip/17700/Kids-Should-Have-to-Play-With-Everyone-My-Thoughts-on-Teaching-Children-to-Be-Includers. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.

Understanding Active Health Education

Hi everyone! I hope you are having an amazing day! My name is Maya Creswick, and I am in my second year of the Physical Health Education program. My educational journey has been shaped by my passion for physical activity, wellness and caring for others. Growing up, I was involved in various sports such as basketball, lacrosse, volleyball, and track. Participating in these sports helped me maintain a healthy active lifestyle and built lifelong friendships. Watching how physical activity brings people together, with different interactions, such as smiles and laughter, inspired me to pursue a career as a Physical Health Education teacher. I have always enjoyed supporting and looking out for others, which I believe is an important quality to have for any type of teacher. Physical activity became a personal way of clearing my mind and reducing stress, and it motivated me to help others develop their own healthy, active lifestyles. I love helping and caring for others, and I am excited to share this passion as I continue on my journey in this program. 

Active health education can have a huge impact on young lives by encouraging physical activity and shaping how young people view their overall health and well-being. Physical activity is about feeling energized, connecting with others, having fun, and escaping from any stressful times in your life. Personally, P.E. was my favourite subject because it allowed me to move my body, enjoy the freedom of activity, play fun games with my classmates, and build healthy habits. Physical activity is not just a requirement but is an essential part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Now, when young people are given the opportunity to engage in fun physical activities, they begin to see movement not as a chore, but as something they genuinely enjoy. It becomes something they look forward to, an opportunity to have fun and stay active. As an educator, it’s important to recognize that students have diverse interests, whether in art, science, or gaming. P.E. might not be everyone’s favourite, so it’s important to make classes exciting and inclusive. Offering students choices and encouraging them to suggest ideas can help create positive experiences. This approach can promote a lifelong love for physical activity and encourage healthy habits. For example, you could create “fitness challenges” where students can choose from a variety of activities like relay races, tournaments, or obstacle courses. This variety would allow every student to find something they enjoy while staying active. 

For educators, understanding key concepts like the 24-hour movement behaviours and the components of health are essential. These guidelines highlight the delicate balance between movement, rest, and sleep that is so important for a healthy life. Teaching students simple yet powerful practices, like taking active breaks, setting aside screens for restful sleep, or simply listening to their bodies can guide them toward a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Helping students build routines that help improve their mental and physical well-being is so important. In conclusion, I believe physical activity is an essential aspect of our lives and as someone who loves helping and caring for others, I am excited to become a physical health educator.