Dunham's Lower School Physical Education

Kickball

2011-05-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

Circus Fun!!!

2011-04-07T14:33:00.000-05:00

LOVE Tennis!

2011-02-11T10:22:00.000-06:00

Jump Ropes

2011-01-25T19:05:00.000-06:00

Longest Moustache Ever!

Longest Pigtails Known to girls ;)

Chinese Jump Rope

Speed Stacks

2011-01-14T15:38:00.000-06:00

“Speed stacking challenges the brain, gives immediate feedback and provides physical activity, three things necessary for brain development”. (Jean Blaydes Madigan, Neurokinesiologist)

Check out this link about Sport Stacking from Time Magazine:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1891737,00.html

Article from the cover of the Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124044351073445491.html

Studies about Speed Stacks:
http://www.stackademics.com/

Omnikin (Cage) Ball Fun

2011-01-14T15:35:00.000-06:00

Christmas Games

2010-12-17T08:53:00.000-06:00

Bowl for the Soul!!!

2010-11-29T10:31:00.001-06:00

For the next two weeks our Lower School students will be bowling in PE. The Bowling Proprietors Association of America (BPAA) has a program that allows us to use--free of charge-- carpeted bowling lanes, rubber balls, and pins. Circle Bowl has graciously allowed us to use their sets. They have also generously given each student a free pass (which they will receive at the end of next week). Enjoy!

Thanksgiving Games

2010-11-15T10:20:00.002-06:00

Capture the Turkey Egg Thanksgiving Game

Set up:
Place the three hoops equal distance apart on the gym floor. Place six "eggs" inside each hoop. These are the "turkey nests". Place the 8 cones and the exercise mat at one end of the gym. The cones and mat are the "Pilgrim Palace" and will be used for a physical activity when the students are tagged by the Mama or Papa turkey.

Directions:
Split the class evenly into 3 teams, each wearing a different color pinny. One student from each team will be chosen to be the “Mama” or “Papa” turkey, and the rest of the team will be gobblers. The Mama or Papa turkeys stand inside their nests. Their job is to protect the nest and tag gobblers trying to capture their eggs. The gobblers' job is to take eggs from the opposing teams nests and place them in their turkey's nest. The gobblers can take only ONE egg from a nest at a time. If they are tagged by the Mama or Papa turkey, the egg stays where it is and the gobbler must go to the "Pilgrim Palace" to perform the designated physical activity, 10 jumping jacks, 5 push ups, jump rope, etc. When a team has collected 10 eggs, the game is stopped. Continue the game with another student from each team in the nest, and replenish the "eggs" so there are six in each nest.

Thanksgiving Tag:

The family is getting ready for Thanksgiving. There are three taggers: Mom, Dad, and baby, who will wear the colored pinnies. Everyone else is a turkey. The family is trying to catch the turkeys so that they can eat them for Thanksgiving dinner, while the turkeys are trying to get away. The turkeys can save themselves by going down on one knee and calling out the name of another food the family can eat for Thanksgiving, such as mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, and so on. If they can do this before they are tagged, they are safe for three seconds before needing to get up and run again. If they do get tagged, they must stand on one foot like a turkey, frozen in place until another turkey comes over and gives them a "high five."

Pilo Hockey

2010-11-12T14:02:00.001-06:00

Healthy Food Choices

2010-10-26T15:25:00.002-05:00

This week all Lower School students are learning how to make healthy food choices. We are talking about the Food Guide Pyramid, refined vs. whole grains, healthy cereals, healthy snack options, and tons more! Ask your child what they have learned :) I bet they will surprise you!!!

The following are a few fun pics of 1st Grade with parachutes:

Watch WBRZ Channel 2 Tonight--We are the 2 Make a Difference Story!!!

2010-10-14T10:09:00.000-05:00

With our compassionate and generous Lower School Students (Grades 1-4), we were able to raise $12, 608.32 for Juvenile Diabetes. WBRZ came out for our walk and captured the heart of what we did. Make sure to tune in tonight and see how YOU have made a difference!

Lower School Juvenile Diabetes Walk-a-Thon

2010-10-09T02:52:00.000-05:00

Education about Learning Differences/Autism and Juvenile Diabetes

2010-09-28T14:18:00.004-05:00

This week, your 1-4 Graders have learned about Juvenile Diabetes and learning differences (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Discalculia, and The Autism Spectrum).

On October 8, 2010 the Dunham Lower School (Grades 1-4) will walk 2 miles to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. This week in PE, we have not only learned about Diabetes, but also learned that we want to be part of finding the cure! Parents are highly encouraged to come out and walk with their children. Below are the times for our Lower School JDRF walk:

1st Grade: 8:15-9:00

2nd Grade: 12:00-12:45

3rd Grade: 9:00-9:45

4th Grade: 10:00-10:45

Also, Ms. Ky Burke from the McKay Academic Center shared with the 2nd-4th Grade about types of learning differences. When we have the correct knowledge, we can help those around us who face challenges different from our own. We learned that knowledge is power! And, we learned that every challenge comes with a special gift. :-)

Hi-Yah!!! Karate Week

2010-09-23T14:25:00.000-05:00

Mr. David Vincent and Ms. Sarah Bailey from David Vincent Martial Arts and Fitness came out this week and taught our P.E. classes. The kids LOVED learning about high blocks, double front punches, kicks, self-defense, self-control, courtesy, and respect. The kids also learned that it is ONLY acceptable to perform Karate in PE, on our pillows, on strangers that are attempting to harm us, and in Karate Studios :)

Soccer

2010-09-16T15:52:00.000-05:00

This is week two of our Soccer unit. The kids LOVE it!!! We have been practicing dribbling, passing, blocking, trapping, shooting, sportsmanship, character, and having fun!

2010-2011 School Year

2010-08-17T14:06:00.009-05:00

Our first day of school was Wednesday, August 11. We are in for a fun and exciting new year!

Here is a sneak preview of what this first semester holds for Lower School PE:

Aug. 11-13 Rules, Signals, Formation, and Tag Games
Aug. 16-20

Aug. 23-27 Fluffilo Football/Fabulous Football
30-Sept. 3

Sept. 7-10 Sizzling Soccer Skills
Sept. 13-17

Sept. 20-24 Karate/Self-Defense (David Vincent Martial Arts)

Sept 27-Oct 1 Educate on Juvenile Diabetes/ Autism (Grades 1-4)
   Frisbee Fun (PK-K)

Oct 8 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 2 Mile Walk

Oct. 4-8   Presidential Fitness Testing (Grades 1-4)
Oct. 11-15   Traditional Games (PK-K)
Oct. 19-22

Oct. 25-29 Healthy Choices (Food)

Nov. 1-5 Parachutes

Nov. 8-11 Pilo Hockey (Soft)

Nov. 15-19 Turkey Tag

Nov. 29- 3 Bowling
Dec. 6-10

(in case of rain, there may be a substitution in curriculum)

Field Day

2010-05-19T23:33:00.003-05:00

President's Council on Physical Fitness

2010-04-16T14:31:00.002-05:00

The Presidential Physical Fitness Program includes five events that measure muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, speed, agility and flexibility. The five events are: Sit and Reach, Shuttle Run, Curl-Ups, Pull-Ups, and the Endurance Run. Everyone is a winner in the Presidential Fitness Program, with children qualifying to receive Participant, National, or Presidential Awards.

The Presidential Fitness Award is the highest of these honors, recognizing students who achieve an OUTSTANDING LEVEL of physical fitness. Only those boys and girls who score at or above the 85th percentile of qualifying standards on ALL FIVE EVENTS are eligible for this award. All of our children have worked very hard over this past year to work and improve their scores. The Presidential Level Award recipients will be recognized at The Moving Up Ceremony which will be held May 25, 2010.

A Trip From the Dentist

2010-02-10T20:36:00.001-06:00

Last week, our kids received a visit from a few Dental Hygienists and a special puppet named Hank. The students learned many interesting facts about proper dental habits. They learned the importance of brushing. Adults and children are encouraged to brush two times a day, and floss once. We also learned that Sprite and Mountain Dew are the worst soft drinks you can consume (due to the citrus acid and sugar content). Drinking or rinsing with water can help to "wash" away some of the sugar and acid, although brushing is optimal. We also learned the correct way to brush our teeth.

The proper way to brush teeth are as follows:

1. Floss
2. Brush Gum Lines with Water (top and bottom) in a circular pattern
3. Brush Teeth with a toothpaste (amount of a green pea and in a circular pattern)
4. Brush the Insides of teeth (top and bottom) using a "flick" motion.
5. Brush your Tongue (starting from the back of tongue with the brush going all the way to the front)

At the end of class, each child received a "gift bag". Included in each bag was a new toothbrush, a sugar-free tooth shaped sucker, and a tooth box (or necklace). The hygienists and gift bags were all donated by Dr. Carol Galliano (a Dunham Parent).

Christmas Outreach

2009-12-20T08:19:00.001-06:00

As we left the Dunham parking lot, we thought that we would be passing out toys to children in Donaldsonville. We were able to do a lot more than that! We passed out Jesus, hope, groceries, love, and the gift of friendship.

When we arrived at the Dream Center in Donaldsonville, we were sent out in a van (supplied by Healing Place Church), and had two Dunham families follow in their SUV's. We packed the van and SUV's with groceries and blankets. We were also given a driver who knew the area (Mr. Carry), and we were off to give to those in need. It's interesting, when you go out with the anticipation of being a blessing to someone, more times than not, you are the one that gets/receives the blessing! It is so cool how Jesus works. What a blessing they were to us! We were also able to reconnect with some of our new friends from the Thanksgiving Outreach. Happy Birthday Jesus!!!

Thanksgiving "Servolution"

2009-12-03T13:33:00.001-06:00

On Saturday, November 21, The Dunham Fourth Grade Fun Field Trip traveled to Donaldsonville LA. They teamed up with a local church (Healing Place) and served the poorest parish in our state. Once The Dunham Team arrived at Healing Place's Dream Center (Donaldsonville), they were sent out into the city with 50 grocery bags full of Thanksgiving food (and lots of love). The Team traveled together in a church van and went door-to-door passing out food, hugs, and love. It was amazing. We visited those who felt forgotten. We were able to pray for a woman with cancer, a man without water or electricity, for salvation, and so much more. After we passed out food, prayed with families, we were able to invite them to a Thanksgiving meal that would be held that night at The Dream Center What an amazing day. It was compassion in action. I can not think of a better way to spend a Saturday--or any other day.

Juvenile Diabetes Walk-A-Thon----HUGE SUCCESS!!!

2009-11-12T10:52:00.005-06:00

The Dunham Lower School (Grades 1-4) decided to help the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation by hosting a Walk-A-Thon. This event was held on Friday, November 6. Each child was educated on the difficulties that children with diabetes have, went out and solicited sponsors, then walked at least two miles each.
The result: $9,697.45!!! Enjoy the pictures below. They are precious :)

4th Grade Fun Field Trip--Cajun Country Corn Maze--We Finally Did It!!!

2009-10-24T22:16:00.003-05:00

After a long-awaited trip to the Cajun Country Corn Maze (due to a rain cancellation two weeks ago), the Fourth Graders were able to make the trip this morning. Upon arrival, we all greeted one another with big hugs, smiles, and excitement for the day. Each person was given a map that could only be deciphered by correctly answering questions at certain check points throughout the maze. Each question was multiple choice and gave three to four options. Depending on the answer you chose, you would turn right or left. Questions tested a diverse range of knowledge; everything from, "What is the 14th word of Jingle Bells?," to, "What is teamwork?" We all put our knowledge together, applied teamwork, and were able to navigate our way through the maze (we did have a few wrong turns, but were quickly back on the right path again--thanks to a few savvy 4th graders). What fun we had together!!!

After we finished the maze, everyone noticed the smell of kettle corn permeating the air. It was definitely the perfect snack after a trip through the corn maze--and yes, it was delicious! Next, it was off for a bumpy "Cow Train" ride. The owners made a train out of metal barrels that were turned sideways and cut in half. They were decorated to look like cows. They were adorable! I think my favorite part of the Cow Train was the sweet older gentleman driver and his outfit. He was dressed from head to toe in a cow print shirt and overalls--including a tail! There were also great handmade roller and tunnel slides, fun and festive automated chicken shows, and hand operated water pumps. The finale of the trip was getting to shoot corn out of push button fired corn cannons! What a fun day!!!

Parachute Fun!

2009-10-20T16:15:00.001-05:00

Last week and this week the kids are having a blast using our PE Parachutes! We have 6 inch and 24 inch chutes. We use each of them differently. The 6 inch chutes allow for small group cooperation and coordination, upper body strength/toning/muscle building and plain old fun! The larger chutes work on developing large group cooperation, as well as upper body endurance. The kids have played games such as "Pig in a Blanket","Pork and Beans", "Shark Attack", "Cat and Mouse", and "Popcorn". They LOVE parachute time!!!

4th Grade Fun Field Trip Rescheduled for October 24, 2009

2009-10-10T06:52:00.000-05:00

Due to the rain through the night and rain we are currently having, we are postponing our 4th Grade Fun Field Trip to the Cajun Country Corn Maze. Our new date will be October 24. Have a safe weekend!!!

Sizzling Soccer Skills

2009-09-28T14:48:00.002-05:00

Again, I will say that I have the best job in the world!

This week the kids and I are enjoying the most popular sport in the world--soccer! We have dribbled, trapped, kicked, and passed. They love it! Hopefully, the pictures will speak for themselves. Enjoy!

4th Grade Fun--LSU Lakes Bike Ride

2009-09-19T22:07:00.010-05:00

The day began around 10:00 am. The weather was perfect--nice breeze, sunny, absolutely glorious! Fourth graders and parents met at the LSU lakes for our first official "4th grade Fun Field Trip." After inflating tires and fastening helmets, we began our journey. Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez led the way while I held the caboose position. We toured both the large and small lakes. We stopped a few times to catch our breath, rehydrate, and take in the beautiful scenery. Several of us even enjoyed lunch together afterwards. We had a blast! What a wonderful day! What's next??? Stay "blogged-in" to find out!

Healthy Food Choices

2009-09-08T17:17:00.002-05:00

This week we are educating the children on the importance of healthy nutrition. We started by explaining the different food groups and discussed how our choices significantly affect our bodies. The children learned that, even if they do not like the hot lunch, they can still have a nutritious and balanced lunch containing all five food groups. The kids were also educated on the differences between whole grains and refined grains. They learned what they both look like, which one is better for our bodies, and why! I look forward to hearing good reports from parents and teachers as we 'reap the fruits' of learning about healthy lunch choices.

All we want to do is DANCE, DANCE, DANCE!!!

2009-08-26T14:33:00.002-05:00

The kids are having a blast dancing this week! My 2nd-4th graders have learned the dance steps of the "California Strut" and "5, 6, 7, 8." These dances are fun, age-appropriate, and fast paced. Our hearts have been beating faster than the rhythm of the music!

FUN TIP: The next time your family has "Taco Night," consider downloading a copy of "Hot, Hot, Hot" from iTunes, and have your child show you the California Strut!

California Strut:
(Music: Hot, Hot, Hot)

1. Walk Forward (4 counts)
   Walk Back (4 counts)

2. Step Touch R and L (4 counts)

3. 3-step Turn to R (4 counts)
   3-step Turn to L (4 counts)

4. Raise the Roof 4 times

5. Repeat all until end of song