Tackling the importance of physical education (PE) in schools’ curriculum, Francé Davin, a school social worker who also works in private practice, dives into this holistic approach of helping children by linking the mind and body to aid them in reaching their full potential.
According to Davin, research indicates that a person with poor physical health is three times more likely to develop a mental health problem. “Poor mental health is associated with, among other things, educational underachievement, social disadvantage, and poor health and well-being,” said Davin.
The incorporation of PE and other health-related topics within the curriculum was for more than one reason, stated Davin. “Educating children on health (physical, mental, and social) is seen as a strategy to prevent future problems and diseases. It also allows for young children to start moving around, which is critical and for some children this will be the only physical exercise they get in a day,” said Davin.
In Davin’s professional capacity, she has also seen a positive change in behaviour linked to physical activity. “Sports teaches children that there are rules and structure that needs to be applied. As a result, it leads to better self-discipline.”
Bonolo Moloi
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