Learning Objectives
• Experience the concept of engagement and "flow" in team-based physical activities.
• Develop teamwork and communication skills.
• Foster a sense of belonging to a community through shared experiences.
Instructions
- Organize a team sports challenge, such as soccer, basketball, or relay races, in a safe and supervised environment.
- Divide all participants into teams and explain the rules and objectives of the challenge.
- Facilitate warm-up activities and team-building exercises to promote cooperation and camaraderie.
- Encourage everyone to actively participate in the sports challenge, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and good sportsmanship.
- Provide opportunities for children to take on different roles within their teams, such as players, captains, or cheerleaders.
- Create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere where children feel motivated to give their best effort and support their teammates.
- Since this is an activity for all ages, makes sure that you adapt the sports and how you deliver the instructions. Everyone loves some healthy competition, so you can incorporate an award for the winning team!
Debrief
- Gather everyone together after the sports challenge.
- Reflect on their experiences and achievements during the activity.
- Guide the conversation towards the concept of engagement and "flow" by asking questions such as:
• How did it feel to participate in the team sports challenge?
• Did you feel fully engaged and focused during the activity?
• What was your favourite part of the challenge?
- Encourage them to share any insights or lessons they learned from the experience.
- Use the opportunity to reinforce the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and healthy competition in achieving shared goals.
- Make the connection between mental health and physical activity, how our minds rest whenever we are having fun and fully connected in an activity.
Materials
- Sports equipment (soccer balls, basketballs, relay race props, etc.)
- Cones or markers for setting up playing areas
- First aid kit (for minor injuries)
