What a day for a play day at Nokomis School. Thanks to an award by Physical Health and Education Canada, Nokomis school students enjoyed the At My Best Play Day on June 13. Not only did the day come with a flotilla of equipment, including a massive inflatable obstacle course, but it also came with a $2000 award from the program's sponsors, Astra Zeneca Canada and Saputo. Nokomis School was one of only three in Canada selected for the event and the cash award. 

At My Best Play Day was the result of an application made by Nokomis School teacher Erin Richard. Richard explained that the application process involved describing how the students at Nokomis School stayed active and healthy given their limited resources. A number of years ago, the gymnasium at the school of 63 students was demolished amid concerns about the roof. In its wake, the school's library was renovated and now serves as an interior activity space. Consequently, Richard explains, much of their physical activity, at least in the warmer months is conducted outside. Other physical activities are conducted in the community arena.

With the donated funds, Richard explains that the school hopes to supplement their outdoor gear.

"We are going to get some more activities for our playground so students will become more physically active and support our gym programs outdoor, as well as supporting our snack program to get some healthy food for our students. We have a daily snack with our students from the four food groups. It's just to support that and make it sustainable."

Physical Health and Education Canada (PHE Canada) sponsors the At My Best program. The mandate is to support children's development by fostering physical activity and helping to develop life long habits that promote health. This is accomplished through curriculum linked resources focussing on holistic wellness.  Cole Wilson is a board member with PHE Canada. Wilson was on hand with a host of program assistants to deliver the day's activities. 

"What we want is for all the kids in Canada to be physically literate and health literate. In terms of physical literacy, we want our youth to have that confidence and competence to move, and the motivation to move. That's where quality physical education programs come in. We want to let them know that movement is a joyful experience."

When it comes to health literacy, Wilson hopes, That students will develop the knowledge, understanding, and attitudes so that they will be able to take care of themselves. So that they will understand the health system, understand their own health needs, and be able to access supports in their community."

What the PHE Canada At My Best Play Day program looks like when the students are outside is a whole heap of fun. With a star-shaped mascot named Ray cheering on the kids, the sunny playground came alive with everything from face painting to giant Jenga to hula hoops and, of course, the building-sized inflatable obstacle course as a highlight. 

The students of Nokomis school lit up for the play day and would benefit from the donation in the weeks and months to come.