Why is Resiliency important in PE Class?

I have spent the last month thinking about what I could do to make my classes better or more engaging. But let’s face it, it’s elementary PE. The kids are always so excited and happy when they walk inside the gym. I often greet the kids in the morning when they arrive at school off the bus. Before they can even get out a hello they are always SO excited to tell me they have phys-ed or they hope they do!!!

Which led me to start thinking about why we have setbacks or problems once inside…….

 

Through my work as a PE teacher at the elementary level, I have observed that more children seem to demonstrate a lack of resilience. My hope is that with my action plan I can help more children develop this important life skill.

This lack of resilience can be most evident in children’s response to failure or when attempting something new or challenging.

Resilience is necessary for children to have a positive approach to new tasks, overcome setbacks and maintain their effort. Resilience is necessary during difficulty and in protecting their own emotional well being.

RESEARCH KEY POINTS:

• Resilience may be fostered by controlled exposure to manageable challenges or stresses, rather than through their avoidance.
• Benefits may depend on mental features; such as planning, self-reflection and personal agency. Success in areas outside the family (such as schools) may foster these features.
• Individual differences in response to challenges are influenced by genetic factors.
• Resilience is not a fixed trait and can be developed.