SPARK Early Childhood Program Promotes Lifelong Wellness and Learning.

WEST CHESTER, Pa. (March 30, 2009) - As a way to help local children develop healthy habits for life, Nobel Learning Communities' preschools throughout the nation have implemented the SPARK early childhood program. Deemed the "New PE," SPARK classes are more inclusive, active and fun than traditional physical education programs and engage students through the use of energetic music, toys and bright colors. SPARK was developed in 2001 in a collaborative effort among San Diego State University, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center Department of Preventative Medicine and the Children's Fund in Memphis. The program stimulates play while promoting lifelong wellness and learning through physical education. Wellness is a core component of Nobel Learning Communities' unique Links to Learning curriculum.

The SPARK early childhood program was initiated as a counter to obesity and heart disease, both of which can begin in childhood. Early childhood programs are an ideal setting for promoting physical activity and for laying the foundation for gross motor development. By implementing the SPARK program, Nobel Learning Communities is facilitating regular engagement in physical activity, teaching good nutrition, reducing health risks and introducing a basic understanding of movement concepts in the early stages of learning. Students participate in the program every day for 30 minutes as part of their daily curriculum. The program also focuses on promoting regular physical activity after school, on weekends, and during holidays and summers.

"The SPARK program provides our preschoolers with a core understanding and appreciation of physical fitness which stimulates both body and mind," said Susan W. Race, Ed.D., Senior Vice President of Education for Nobel Learning Communities, Inc  "Through the SPARK program, our students are engaged in enriching activities that allow them to have fun, learn about wellness and gain confidence. We strongly believe in the connection between active minds and active bodies, and this program can help our students establish healthy habits for life."

The SPARK early childhood program consists of multiple activities that build by age and are designed to be fun, exciting for students and incorporate music. Example programs include:

Movin' Magic, which introduces movement basics, as well as social and behavioral expectations that help build a foundation for teambuilding skills.
Silly Scarves and Streamers, which introduces hand-eye coordination, laterality, tracking and rhythmic and creative expression.
Rowdy Ropes, which incorporates physical fitness and movement skills with motor development and listening.
Other units include: Beanbag Bonanza; Hoop Hooopla; Perpetual Parachute; Kiddie Stunts; Up, Up, and Away; Hold It! Catch It!; Fancy Feet; and Dynamic Duo.
"By learning to enjoy a variety of activities in a supportive environment, students are becoming more confident and competent movers," said Julie Frank, Director of Operations for SPARK. "We applaud Nobel Learning Communities for making a commitment to the overall well-being of the young and developing students and encouraging early childhood educators across the country to follow suit."