Booking It: Using Children's Literature to Get Students Moving

Abstract

Physical activity should be naturally occurring and not necessarily labeled as “exercise.” Rather, it should set the stage for lifestyle habits that include movement for physical and mental health. The cross-curricular integration of literacy and health and physical education may help students see ways to connect physical and academic learning. In this article, two university professors combine their academic passions to present ways to combine reading and physical education to foster health and literacy for children. Through a collaboration with physical and health education teachers, classroom teachers, librarians and the community, pedagogical approaches are offered to help students experience the integration of physical activity and literacy beyond typical “reading” and “PE” classes. A selection of children's literature for Pre-K through Grade four is provided as a starting point for educators to try something new.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Deb L. Marciano

Deb L. Marciano ([email protected]) is an associate professor in the Department of Elementary Education at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, GA.

Sonya L. Sanderson

Sonya L. Sanderson is a professor in the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Education at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, GA.