Homeschool Physical Education Ideas

Homeschool physical education classes are important for kids (and adults) not just for physical health, but for mental health as well! But as a homeschooling family how do you get the P.E. credits you need?  While homeschooling, I have been surprised at the flexibility and freedom you have to choose fun, daily activities that our whole family could enjoy. We have gotten to personalize our days depending on each of our kids’ interests. So here are a few of our favorite homeschool physical education ideas:

Hiking – we love getting out and into nature and having the benefit of observing nature while getting some exercise. You never know what you’ll see in our neighborhood! When we travel we try to seek out local hiking trails and experience a new area each time we go outside.

Swimming – whether you have a backyard pool or not, swimming is a great way we love to get active! Look at your local public pools if you don’t have one, and during the winter months check out your local YMCA or gym to use their indoor pools for year round water fun.

Street Games – teach your kids the games you played outside when you were young. Games like kick the can, capture the flag or blind man’s bluff. If you don’t have a lot of kids to play with, help them make up their own version of these games.

Obstacle Courses – one of my boys’ favorite activities is creating obstacle courses for each other and then seeing who can get through the obstacle course the fastest. By using things from around the house you can make obstacles to climb over, under, around or through.

Bike Riding – we love riding our bikes together!  Even though life is really busy, taking some time to ride bikes can brighten everyone’s day. You can make it a longer ride to a fun location (the park) or just a few minutes around the neighborhood. Remember there are lots of other “man powered” vehicles like roller skates and scooters that your family can use too.

Racquetball – Many gyms have public use racquetball courts and a lot have balls/racquets for rent as well. If you’ve never played before (you don’t have to be an expert by any means) it is a lot of fun for families and a GREAT workout.

Wii Fit or Workout DVDs – if you’re stuck inside take advantage of Wii Fit games or some fun workout DVDs. Many can be accessed online now as well on sites like YouTube.

Dance Party – turn up your favorite music and have a dance party for 30 minutes! This releases stress and gets everyone up and moving.

Exercise Balls – these large balls are fun to bounce and roll around on. They are also great to sit on while doing school work. They keep bodies active and can actually help kids focus.

Trampoline – a great workout and energy burner! Even if you don’t have one in your backyard you can go to a friend’s house or a trampoline park/indoor play area to burn off some steam.
Look beyond the “usual” for physical education and everyone will have more fun. Build a lifelong love of homeschool physical education in your kids and show them that moving just a little bit every day doesn’t have to be a chore. What are some ways your family exercises?  Tell us in a comment below!