Okanagan Zone Teacher's Conference February 21st, 2020

Body Mechanics for Kids (BMK) - Our focus is on educating teachers about the importance of knowing what optimal postural alignment feels like, at rest and in action, and the role it plays in the mental and physical well-being of each of us. This presentation will be an introduction to work that can be done in the classroom, the gym or open space. Teachers will be introduced to tools that help students relieve stress, support and strengthen their bodies, as well as regularly evaluate their physical routine with kinesthetic feedback exercises that challenge critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities. You will learn of movement preparation skills and self-assessment techniques that give students tools to select and modify activities that enhance their physical capacity and competence. Throughout their school years kids are creating the muscle patterns that will take them into adulthood. Muscle Memory is intrinsically connect to one's emotional state and it is important for kids to recognize this at an early age. Mindfulness and balanced conditioning of the body is the best preventative care for long-term health and mobility, avoiding unnecessary wear and tear of the body and preventing unnecessary injuries and chronic pain.

Target Audience:Grades: 4-12