Why teach it?

Facts about childhood obesity Obesity rates for children in many countries have increased dramatically in the past 20

years.

In 2011-12, 25.1% of children aged 2-17 years were overweight or obese, comprised of 18.2% overweight and 6.9% obese.

The proportion of children aged 5-17 years who were overweight or obese increased between 1995 and 2007-08 (20.9% and 24.7%, respectively).

Overweight and obesity rates differed only slightly across children's age groups, ranging from 22.8% for children aged 2 to 4 years, to 26.6% for children aged 12 to 15 years.

As teachers, we have a duty of care to combat social problems that may limit the potential of all children

(4364.0.55.003 - Australian Health Survey: Updated Results, 2011-2012 Latest ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 07/06/2013http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/33C64022ABB5ECD5CA257B8200179437?opendocument accessed)

PDHPE is more than just obesity Statistics of childhood obesity paint a grim picture, and

convey a sense of guilt, but do not focus on the reality of our “obesogenic” society that makes “it easier to gain weight than stay healthy” (Vidgen, 20 September 2013, Guilt relief: how families can fight

childhood obesity, http://theconversation.com/guilt-relief-how-families-can-fight-childhood-obesity-18294)

PDHPE can help address this by supporting kids to make informed decisions about their lifestyle.

PDHPE can provide guidance to help students discern “between conflicting messages from a range of sources” so that students are empowered to make decisions that adopt community values.

(PDHPE Syllabus, p. 7)

PDHPE step up PDHPE plays an essential role in encouraging children to be active

which can decrease the risk of them becoming overweight or obese.

It is recommended that children get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity a day to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. PDHPE is another opportunity to reach this important goal.

By establishing regular patterns of physical education in primary aged students PDHPE can help alleviate the trend of inactivity that flows through to adolescence and adulthood.

Yet, PDHPE is so much more than just physical activity...

(Department of Health Physical Activity Guidelines http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines )

PDHPE rationale Physical activity brings important health benefits to

address issues such as obesity but when run as part of a vibrant PDHPE program children develop a range of other skills.

Boosted self-esteem and confidence are derived from participation in PDHPE as children realise the value of positive interpersonal relationships.

Self-acceptance and acceptance of others are continuously reinforced as children understand their own development and uniqueness.

(PDHPE Syllabus, p. 7) ( http://www.healthykids.nsw.gov.au/kids-teens/get-active-each-day.aspx)

Further benefits External of PDHPE we can also see benefits across other

KLAs as PDHPE offers an opportunity for the real world practical application of content from maths, science and HSIE.

PE can become an outlet for tension, stress and can assist with emotional stability and resilience.

Finally, links have been established between physical activity and improved academic performance, particularly increased concentration levels.

(Department of Sport & Rec WA, http://www.sports.det.nsw.edu.au/teacher_resources/toolkit/proflear/reading/enhancing_academic_achievement.pdf )

References Department of Sport & Rec WA,

http://www.sports.det.nsw.edu.au/teacher_resources/toolkit/proflear/reading/enhancing_academic_achievement.pdf

PDHPE Syllabus

http://www.healthykids.nsw.gov.au/kids-teens/get-active-each-day.aspx

Department of Health Physical Activity Guidelines http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines

4364.0.55.003 - Australian Health Survey: Updated Results, 2011-2012 Latest ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 07/06/2013http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/33C64022ABB5ECD5CA257B8200179437?opendocument

Vidgen, 20 September 2013, Guilt relief: how families can fight childhood obesity, http://theconversation.com/guilt-relief-how-families-can-fight-childhood-obesity-18294)