The goal of a developmentally appropriate physical education program is to help all children experience success, and learn the skills and concepts necessary to become physically active for the rest of their lives. It is crucial that teachers are aware of the difference between the purposes of physical education and athletics, especially when it comes to competition. Teachers are aware of the nature of competition and incorporate appropriate levels and kinds of competition for children. For example children may be allowed to choose between keeping score and skill practice in selected situations. Teachers provide choices in levels of competition and teach participants how to compete positively and constructively at each level.
Teachers use strategies that compare one child's or one team's performance against others.
Teachers use rewards and punishments for winning and losing in class games. Although there are many great physical education programs around the country, there are also many programs where kids are humiliated and turned off to physical activity on a daily basis. Most people know how important physical activity is to keep people healthy, yet we allow this to happen. Physical education is the only place where all students can have the opportunity to get hooked on the excitement and introduced to the benefits of regular physical activity. Physical education reform is going on in this country with wonderful efforts from teachers, national organizations, businesses and universities, but there are some issues that need immediate attention .