Physical activity helps improve kids’ ability to learn. Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) supports educators, students and families to promote physical activity in schools.
Quality Daily Physical Activity (QDPA)
Elementary schools in Ontario must provide students with at least 20 minutes of sustained moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. QDPA helps to improve:
- Self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image
- Grades and test scores
- Classroom behaviours
- Feelings of social connection
- Sense of belonging, especially for children with developmental or learning differences
- Disability-Centred Movement: Supporting Inclusive Physical Education (OPHEA)
Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS)
A playground leadership program, out of Peel Region, for elementary schools that encourages all students to participate in activities regardless of their gender, size, or ability. Program content has been revised to include equity and inclusion, accessibility, and mental health promotion, and infection prevention. This program is approved for use within Ontario.
PALS resources for schools
Certificates and Forms
- PALS student leader application
- PALS parent guardian information letter
- PALS parent guardian permissions form
- PALS training preparation checklist
- Certificate leader training (no Peel logo)
- Facilitator training certificate (no Peel logo)
- PALS monthly planning tool
- PALS weekly planning tool
- PALS leader responsibility poster
- PALS participant responsibilities
Handbooks and Games
- Facilitator handbook
- Facilitator handbook (print-ready)
- Games book
- Games book (print-ready)
- Student leader handbook
- Student leader handbook (print-ready)
- Student leader training presentation
Active and Safe Routes to School
SWPH is a partner in Active and Safe Routes to School (ASRTS). We are a group of community organizations supporting active transportation to school in St. Thomas, London, and Elgin, Middlesex, and Oxford Counties.
Explore the ASRTS website for local resources
Learn more about active transportation in your community on our Walking, Hiking, Biking page.
iWalk to School Month
October is International Walk (iWalk) to School Month. Your school can participate by encouraging active transportation to and from school. Find more information and resources for International Walk to School Month from Ontario Active School Travel.
Grade 5s are eligible for an Act-i-Pass!
What is the ACT-i-Pass? It is a card for grade 5 students that offers them (plus a friend or family member in some activities) access to free and low-cost activities like skating, swimming, karate and golf for a whole year. Activity options and service providers change throughout the year. Please go to the ACT-i-Pass website where you can search and discover local recreation opportunities that interest you.
Ready to join? Complete the registration form online today at www.playeveryday.ca and your ACT-i-Pass card will be mailed to your home within about 3 weeks!