What is PALS?
Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS) is an elementary school playground student leadership program. It provides opportunities to help foster a sense of belonging and inclusion among students, while engaging in physical activity in the school yard.
The motto for PALS is “There’s always room for one more”.
How does my school benefit from PALS?
- Provides an opportunity for students to gain leadership skills.
- Increases students’ sense of belonging and inclusion.
- Increases opportunities for physical activity to improve students’ physical literacy.
- Decreases bullying and conflict by creating a positive social and physical environment that promotes healthy, safe, and caring relationships.
What is required to have PALS in my school?
The PALS program follows a train-the-trainer model with school staff being trained as PALS program facilitators.
The role of the facilitator(s) is to coordinate student leader training and provide ongoing support for the program at their school throughout the year.
Students in grades four to six are recruited and trained to act as Playground Activity Leaders for younger students. These students plan and lead fun activities on the playground, contributing to a positive school climate by promoting inclusivity, safety and acceptance.
Student leaders are provided with the opportunity to learn and practice:
- Leadership skills.
- Communication skills.
- Conflict resolution.
- Fair play strategies.
If your school is interested in Playground Activity Leaders in Schools (PALS), please contact the Healthy Schools Health Promotion hotline at extension 1555 or email csh@wechu.org.