My name is Darren and I am in my fifth year as a second grade teacher (second career). I am 41 years old, am married, and have three boys. I enjoy hiking, camping, gardening, boating, riding my motorcycle, and of course reading (what teacher doesn't).
There is nothing, and I mean nothing like teaching! What joy it is to see a child's face light up when she/he discovers a new concept! Watching "the wheels turn" within their minds is fascinating. It is a wonderful career in which one gets to know so many children and families, and have a positive influence in their lives.
Of my many educational interests, is my concern regarding childhood obesity and the effects of exercise or lack thereof on the brain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (n. d.), stated, "Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years" (para. 1). I think that some of this can be attributed to a more sedentary lifestyle overall in our society. Moreover, due to budget cuts and the need for academic minutes, many schools across the nation are reducing physical activity classes. I am hoping that my investigations will inspire schools and legislators to increase physical education time, as well as free play time in our schools. This will result in a healthier children.
There is nothing, and I mean nothing like teaching! What joy it is to see a child's face light up when she/he discovers a new concept! Watching "the wheels turn" within their minds is fascinating. It is a wonderful career in which one gets to know so many children and families, and have a positive influence in their lives.
Of my many educational interests, is my concern regarding childhood obesity and the effects of exercise or lack thereof on the brain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (n. d.), stated, "Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years" (para. 1). I think that some of this can be attributed to a more sedentary lifestyle overall in our society. Moreover, due to budget cuts and the need for academic minutes, many schools across the nation are reducing physical activity classes. I am hoping that my investigations will inspire schools and legislators to increase physical education time, as well as free play time in our schools. This will result in a healthier children.
I look forward to writing and sharing posts about what I find in my investigations of this issue as well as others (brain research is another passion). I thank you for your interest and hope you garner something to take away from the information I share. I would love and appreciate anything you have to share on these topics.
References
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Obesity prevention | Healthy schools | The centers for disease control and prevention. Retrieved September 12, 2015, from http://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/obesity/facts.htm
