Get Those Little Sharks Moving!
PE in Pre-K 3 builds practical skills.
All Sharks receive daily PE instruction as well as recess. While recess time focuses on free and creative play, our PE Specialists use their time to build physical and practical skills.
Our youngest Sharks found our Steitz Gymnasium to be a welcome break from the current August heat wave!
This week they are working on establishing routines and listening for directions.
"Starting and stopping to a signal is important so that students know when it's time to move and play and when it's time to stop and listen. Most of the time that signal is something verbal but we also use music," said PE Specialist Emily Vasquez. "Spatial awareness is another focal point during the beginning of the year with the little ones. We remind them to look where they're going and imagine a safety bubble around their body that will pop if they get too close to someone."
The PE specialists introduce the main locomotor movements students will use throughout the year - skipping, galloping, walking, jogging, and hopping. Typically, they focus on one or two of these movements during each class.
As the year progresses, the coaches will introduce more sports-specific skills, with an emphasis on teamwork and encouraging others to do their best.
"Providing children in the early years with a basic foundation of movement will help them as they grow older and participate in other sports or activities," said Ms. Vasquez. "Getting into a habit of daily exercise is important no matter what age you are."
The PE program at JCDS offers a strong balance of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that students will carry with them throughout life. It helps them focus better in the classroom and serves as a natural mood booster. Even the smallest skills must be learned, and our youngest Sharks are well on their way.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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