EDU 304 Health and Physical Education
This course examines the role of health, wellness, and physical education in supporting the holistic development of elementary aged children. Teacher candidates explore how physical, cognitive, and social emotional health interact to influence learning, behavior, and overall well being. Emphasis is placed on integrating movement, nutrition, safety, mindfulness, and trauma informed practices into classroom instruction to create inclusive, supportive, and healthy learning environments. Candidates examine evidence based strategies related to physical activity, behavioral and emotional regulation, child protection, emergency preparedness, substance use prevention, and family and community engagement. Current research and best practices in health education, physical education, and school wellness are used to prepare future educators to promote lifelong healthy habits and resilience in elementary classrooms.