Printer-friendly versionA survey of inclusive physical education programs reveals a culture of respect and community values. “It’s not just about fitness,” says veteran PE teacher Doris Dorr. “Our program is ingrained with character education.” Here are some ways to make a PE class more welcoming for all kids:
• Communicate clearly and firmly that encouragement and respect will be the fundamental value in PE classes, then model that support for less-capable students. A simple fist bump or pat on the shoulder can go a long way in helping a struggling student relax, feel safe and have fun.
• Personalize the curriculum as much as possible. Students should be developing their own fitness and skills, not competing against others. Competition, for the most part, should be reserved for sports programs.
• Research creative ways to accommodate special needs and physically less-capable students. Help all students recognize that physical education is about health, fitness and having fun, not necessarily doing everything by the rules.
• Emphasize effort and personal progress more than performance. One student may not be as fast as another, but a target heart-rate monitor may reveal he or she is exerting more effort and is making greater individual progress.
• Incorporate cooperative games in lieu of competition. For example, all students can contribute to a “Walk Across America” challenge in which they count up miles walked and run in a virtual cross-country journey.
• Whenever appropriate, link the PE curriculum to other school subjects. Creating a hybrid project with math, social studies and reading teachers helps students and colleagues value what you do in PE, and show you value what they do, as well.
• Refrain from using push-ups, laps or other physical activity as punishment. This practice sends the wrong message.
• All teachers should examine their own attitudes regarding size, race, religion, gender, sexuality, fitness and ability. They should strive not to let their own biases intrude on instruction or how they relate to students.
