Promoting Health and Well-Being in Spring: Tips for Primary pupils

Hello, Spring! Springtime is a season of growth, renewal, and fresh beginnings. As educators, we recognise the importance of nurturing both the minds and bodies of our young learners. Here are practical ways to encourage healthy habits during this vibrant season:

1. Start the Day Right with Nutritious Breakfasts

A wholesome breakfast fuels our pupils for a day of learning and exploration. Most of the schools under Excelsior Multi Academy Trust provide Breakfast Club for our children. We encourage the Breakfast Club to offer balanced meals that include whole grains, fruits, and protein.

2. Embrace Seasonal Produce

Local markets overflow with fresh fruits and vegetables during spring. Let’s introduce our pupils to the joy of eating what’s in season—strawberries, peas, and leafy greens. These colourful foods boost immunity and vitality.

3. Stay Hydrated

Warmer days mean more outdoor play. We provide all our pupils with reusable water bottles, so they can sip water throughout the day. Proper hydration enhances focus, digestion, and overall well-being.

4. Learn Where Food Comes From

Our school gardens provide hands-on experiences to pupils. They can plant seeds, nurture plants, and witness the magic of growth with our teachers. Let’s connect them to the origins of their food.

5. Active Playtime

Extend playtime outdoors. Organise games, races, and nature hunts. Movement isn’t just about sports—it’s about joyous play.

Our schools have begun adopting an OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) philosophy that allows the children freedom to explore play in their own imaginative ways using the wide range of resources available to them and the natural environment.  Green Meadow Primary School, one of our schools, embarked on their OPAL journey last year. Our pupils love the new outdoor opportunities that OPAL, and there is so much more for them to explore! From playing with tyres and boats and using and crates and pallets, to keeping fit on the trim track or climbing the climbing domes and fort. Outdoor school playtime, especially during spring, brings them immense joy!

6. Seasonal Sports and Clubs

Spring opens doors for more outdoor sports such as football, archery, and athletics. Let’s actively involve pupils in sports and teamwork. Perhaps we’ll even discover future athletes among them!

7. Explore Nature

Take learning beyond the classroom. Spring walks outside of school allow pupils to observe blossoms, insects, and changing landscapes. These experiences provide an opportunity to discuss the interconnectedness of nature and our overall well-being.

8. Wellness Challenges

Engage the entire school community in wellness challenges. Whether it’s counting steps, celebrating fruits and vegetables, or creating fitness circuits, let’s prioritise health together with the children.

Remember, these habits lay the foundation for lifelong well-being. Let’s empower our primary pupils to bloom like spring flowers—energetic, curious, and nourished.