By

Barbara Fields,   Matewan Pk-8 School

Play:

The Power Behind the Play

Topics:

Physical Activity Participation

We asked all students in kindergarten through 8th grade to keep a diary of healthy food choices for three weeks. The students were invited to then spend 30 minutes in healthy activity with their classmates, cooks, teachers, and the principal. The students participated in a lot of movement and even some dancing. One student commented that she was going to love her heart every day for the rest of her life.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

The staff at the school has seen the students create more of an interest in choosing healthy foods. We have challenged the students to pack healthy snacks in their lunch boxes and we feel that many of the students are choosing to do so.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

The staff and teachers plan to eat lunch with the students one day every other week. During this time, the table conversation will be able to try new foods and the benefits of eating healthy.

How did students and adults work together as a team?

This was the best part of this activity. The students loved the interaction from the adults, especially the cooks. Ms. Lisa, the head cook, spent a lot of time moving and dancing with the students. The students LOVED this interaction.