Health and physical education teaching resources

Health and physical education is a key area of the Canadian curriculum that focuses on promoting students’ overall well-being, physical fitness, and health literacy. This subject encompasses a wide range of topics, including personal health, physical activity, nutrition, mental health, safety, substance use, and healthy relationships. In Canadian schools, health and physical education aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to make informed decisions about their health and to adopt lifelong healthy habits.

Teachers use health and physical education resources to develop lessons that encourage active participation, promote inclusivity, and build students’ confidence in making healthy choices. Activities may include sports, fitness routines, discussions about mental wellness, and lessons on topics such as personal safety, body image, and respectful relationships. Resources tagged with health and physical education support teachers in addressing curriculum outcomes, integrating cross-curricular connections, and fostering a safe, supportive learning environment.

By focusing on both physical activity and health education, educators can help students understand the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle, respecting diversity, and practising positive social behaviours. Health and physical education resources may also provide guidance for adapting activities to meet diverse student needs and for engaging families and communities in supporting student well-being. Ultimately, this subject plays a vital role in helping students develop resilience, self-awareness, and the ability to make responsible choices throughout their lives.