UN FIL TER ED

Healthy habits often start from a young age, but at what point should the education system come into play?

From running laps around the oval to enforcing team sports in high school, it’s often a tricky line to balance between encouraging healthy practices and allowing freedom of choice. This month we pondered and probed, asking our very own, should physical education be mandatory in schools?

By OLIVIA ASHWORTH

Lisa // Digital Account Director

First and foremost, I want to put a disclaimer that I am 100 per cent not what you would call a ‘sporty’ person, and as a kid I did really loath having to do PE. However, now as a mum of three boys and with my oldest starting school this year, I’ve somewhat changed my tune. It’s been proven that regular exercise helps children develop physical literacy, motor skills, coordination, and the management of stress. It also encourages fitness and boosts focus and concentration which attributes to overall academic performance. I’m also a huge believer that participating in team sports teaches key life skills such as cooperation, respect, and teamwork. As a parent navigating my way through a world filled with screentime and technology (I mean my 6-yearold literally wants to be a Youtube star!), we need all the help we can to create balance for our children. To be honest, I’d rather my children be forced to be active than learn algebra.

Rhonda // Sales Admin

I don’t think physical education should be mandatory… nothing should be mandatory; however, I will say it certainly should be strongly encouraged. In the techno age we’re living in, with kids glued to screens, some fresh air and exercise can only be a plus. However, whatever the type of exercise, it has to be enjoyable. Not all kids are the same, so each child should be encouraged to participate in whatever they feel comfortable doing and most importantly, enjoy. Whether that’s single participation, like athletics or running, or a team sport, there’s no point forcing physical education on someone, especially a child. I think we should be focusing our energy on ensuring children are enjoying themselves, encour aging each other to strive for greatness, and teaching kids inclusiveness. If a child is not the sporty type, there’s ways to encourage the outdoors and a bit of free movement without it being a mandatory requirement.

Max // Digital Campaign Manager

When push comes to shove, I believe physical education is just as important as mental health education, especially when it comes to helping children develop into happy, healthy adults. While school wasn’t necessarily my ‘thing’, PE was something I really enjoyed – whether that was because I enjoyed sport or just because it allowed me to escape the classroom environment. Studies have also shown that even short bursts of exercise prior to studying can improve concentration and retention of information. So, not only will teaching children these skills help them for the rest of their lives, but more immediately, they will have increased productivity throughout the rest of their studies.