It's a Great Day at USM!

Hi to all University School parents, students, and teachers! I am so excited to start my 10th year at USM. My classes these first two weeks have gone well, and I am excited to work with all the children. Usually at the end of each week I will update my blog with the weekly happenings in my PE classes. I hope you will follow my blog and leave comments! Of course students might read this blog so make sure your comments are child-friendly. If you have a more serious concern, you can always feel free to email or call. The first week in all of my classes I covered the rules of PE class, and we played some simple games to get the children used to my style of teaching.
Some important things for parents to help me with...
1. Make sure your child has properly fitting sneakers to wear. For JK parents I would prefer shoes with no ties as it is often frustrating for the children when their shoes come untied and they have to miss out on the activity several times. No crocs or sandals please, please, please!

2. Ask your child what they did in PE each week. Try to have them SHOW you skills we have worked on, and explain what the important parts are.

3. Keep your children active on the weekends in something active. Build healthy habits at a young age so physical activity is a regular part of their life.

4. If your child is injured or sick to the point where they cannot participate, please send a note via paper or email, or leave me a voice message. It is helpful to know what your child can and cannot do for that day.

Next week in JK, we will be working on locomotor activities (skipping, running, galloping, sliding, etc.) and freezing (like a statue). The first through fourth graders will start their volleyball units. We will also continue to practice for our fitness testing in a about a month. Pull-ups, curl-ups, and the distance run have all been introduced. The PK children will have their first class in the gym where the children will learn the basic rules (and of course play some fun and easy games!).