See How Other Schools Are 'Moving'

Looking for ideas to incorporate in your school?  See what some Delaware elementary schools have done to add physical activity into their routines, while making it fun, too.

Richardson Park's Got a Lot of PEP!

This year, the PEP Squad, a group of Richardson Park Elementary School 3^rd graders, was formed to help spread NHPS' 5-2-1-Almost None message about healthy eating and physical activity with the rest of the school. "Rather than just stand with the children at dismissal, I thought it would be a fun time to emphasize health," said Cathy Whelton, school nurse. Each day she would say the words to the 5-2-1-Almost None song she created, and slowly most of the younger children (and some of the parents) caught on. Soon they were eager to sing the words, especially when the principal or their teachers walked by.

The 15 3^rd grade students worked hard to learn the words and design moves to go along with the song. There were times when it didn't seem like it would come together, but in the end, one student said, "It shows what working together can do!" The ultimate reward was seeing the smiles on their faces after they performed at the school talent show. "Singing about healthy choices is a fun way to learn. To help students feel better about themselves is a reward that goes without saying!"

The PEP Squad also had the opportunity to perform when Governor Jack Markell visited Richardson Park at the end of May. That was definitely a day those students will never forget.

Athlete Night Brings 'Heroes' to Elementary School

Brandywine Springs Elementary School offers weekly open gym nights where families can come to the school to play during the winter months, when being physically active outdoors can be a challenge. The annual University of Delaware Athlete Night brings local heroes to the school to participate in many activities with the kids and families who attend. Check out the full story that was featured in the UD Review.

Highlands Elementary School Kicks Off 150 Minutes

Six smiling children, holding three signs waiting for their cue. That's how the students at Highlands Elementary School were welcomed back from Spring Break. Amy Dunigan, school nurse, and the school wellness team introduced the students to this initiative during a school wide assembly. In pairs, the six students flipped their signs to spell out '150 Minutes of Physical Activity A Week in School'! More posters and more wiggling children jumped and turned to share the benefits of physical activity. And then, all of the students shouted, "Makes you feel great!" in unison. Students also participated in a 10-minute activity and met celebrity guest, Mark Rothstein, who introduced them to his 'World of Rope Jumping'. Mr. Rothstein demonstrated his jump roping skills and challenged the students to be more physically active.

This is a continuation of Highlands' efforts to promote child health and tne Nemours' 5-2-1-Almost None healthy lifestyle message. Highlands has instituted daily morning announcement activities, a walking program at recess, the CATCH program in PE, and Take 10! activities throughout the day. Energizing music inspires the students to really move during their 15 minute walk at recess. The enthusiasm is contagious and fun is had by all! The students and faculty at Highlands are making great strides towards reaching their 150 minute goal each week.

There’s a Whole Lot of Shaking Going on at Bancroft at 8:25 a.m.

Beginning on March 1, 2010, Bancroft staff and students began implementing its 150 minute movement plan.  Movement Monday, Wake Up Wednesday and Fitness Friday has not only built in additional movement minutes but has given us a great start to our day.  At 8:25 a.m., you can find the staff and students doing the Electric Slide, Cha-Cha Slide, Cupid Shuffle or even the Hokey Pokey. Everyone starts their day invigorated and excited. Our students look forward to the “dancing days” and have even started to make requests.  By building in this time, we continue to build a healthy positive school experience for our students.