Athletics

Learning and taking pleasure in the joy of physical movement is an important part of each day at Cambridge Friends. All grades have opportunities to be outside to move the body in whatever way each student is called to do in the fresh air during recess, but they also participate in more structured physical learning during gym classes held throughout the week. The aim is to promote physical activity, foster a love of movement, build endurance, and increase strength and flexibility. Balancing the opportunity to be physical – or “get the wiggles out” – with the academic requirements of the classroom is essential for rich learning in both areas. 

In gym class, children connect with their bodies through a variety of movement activities and games. Games provide a vehicle for children have fun, remain active, and grow in self-confidence. Students participate in a variety of games – individual, partner, and group activities – to grow their skills and abilities: 

• Team building initiatives provided students with a vareity of options to take on a leadership role, as well as creating space for creative thinking and connection within a group setting.
• Large group games enable students to interact together and at the same time practice dodging, fleeing, and cooperation skills. 
• Soccer activities gave students the time and space to practice important dribbling, passing, shooting, and goal-tending skills.
• Fitness routines might include push-ups, curl-ups, jumping jacks, blast offs, or stretching activities and provide opportunities for students to increase resilience, endurance, and flexibility levels.
• Mindful breathing provides the opportunity for students to settle both mind and body before returning to class.

Go Lightning!