Mental health part of new phys ed curriculum

A new physical education curriculum for grade 10 classes on P.E.I. is shifting some of the focus away from fitness and competitive sports, and more toward student wellness and mental health.

The new curriculum was rolled out provincewide this fall. It includes components on healthy eating, conflict resolution and community service.

Alana Trainor, a phys ed teacher at Montague Regional High School, said as part of the community service component, her students decided to hold a bake sale to raise money for the local food bank.

"They did a really good job, they raised almost $200," said Trainor.

"It was really neat because once they had that first success then you could really see amongst all of them, you know, it was almost as if a spark had been lit."

Trainor said gym class still includes basketball and other physical activities, and the goal is still to get kids excited about fitness, so they'll lead active lives.

She said the mental health and wellness components can help kids deal some of the particular challenges young people are facing.

For mobile device users: Is it a good idea to add mental health and wellness to the phys ed curriculum?