title: The play approach to learning in the context of families and schools: an alternative paradigm for nutrition and fitness education in the 21st century.
abstract: An alternative paradigm for nutrition and fitness education centers on understanding and developing skill in implementing a play approach to learning about healthful eating and promoting active play in the context of the child, the family, and the school. The play approach is defined as a process for learning that is intrinsically motivated, enjoyable, freely chosen, nonliteral, safe, and actively engaged in by young learners. Making choices, assuming responsibility for one's decisions and actions, and having fun are inherent components of the play approach to learning. In this approach, internal cognitive transactions and intrinsic motivation are the primary forces that ultimately determine healthful choices and life habits. Theoretical models of children's learning--the dynamic systems theory and the cognitive-developmental theory of Jean Piaget--provide a theoretical basis for nutrition and fitness education in the 21st century. The ultimate goal is to develop partnerships of children, families, and schools in ways that promote the well-being of children and translate into healthful life habits. The play approach is an ongoing process of learning that is applicable to learners of all ages.
authors.affiliation: School of Allied Health Sciences, Indiana University, James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis 46202, USA.
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Rickard
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Gallahue
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Gruen
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Tridle
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bewley
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Steele
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003071:Cognition; D005190:Family; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D017145:Models, Educational; D052756:Nutritional Sciences / Q000193:education*; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000639:trends*; D010988:Play and Playthings; D012574:Schools; D014481:United States